Category Archives: TRENDING

You’re Invited | Good as Gold Leather Embossing Event

If you’re looking for the perfect gift, why not get them something with their name written all over it, literally. 

It’s no secret that everyone has gone mad for personalisation; it’s a have-to-have statement piece and also the perfect ‘you shouldn’t have, but I’m so glad you did’ gift. That’s why we’ve partnered with Heaps + Stacks to personalise your new Accessorize leather to celebrate you – and help with gifts that look like you’ve gone the extra mile (because you have).

We’ve got chic leather cross body bags, a cool and casual leather backpack, and the perfect everyday leather tote. 

Purchase one of our leather pieces and receive free embossing. If you’re one of those incredibly-organised people, it’s the perfect Christmas present for a loved one (or a you-survived-the-week treat for yourself!)

We’re going to be popping up between 10am – 2pm in our Accessorize stores for the next few weeks. 

Friday 15th November: One New Change & Canary Wharf

Saturday 16th November: Bluewater & Lakeside

Friday 13th December: Oxford Street East & Brent Cross

Saturday 14th December: White City Westfield & Stratford Westfield

 

 

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How to Shop More Sustainable This World Vegan Day

This World Vegan Day, we are thinking about small changes we can make to our shopping habits that can ensure a better future for the planet.

Everywhere we look there’s something about the future of the planet, often rather glum news. The good news is, even the simplest lifestyle change can make a difference, from reducing your plastic usage or off-setting carbon on your flight, to shopping in a more sustainable way.  

Here are some of our sustainable pieces that can help you make a small difference. 

Bag yourself a Vegan piece

Some of our bags have been certified vegan by The Vegan Society, and the even better news is that mores styles will be joining the collection next year.  

Back to cool

Long gone the days where you begrudgingly slumped your (often unfashionable) backpack over your shoulder on the way to school (while leaving rouge bandannas in the bottom, sorry mum). Today, the backpack is one of the most popular bags – it’s hands free, fits everything you need and it’s on-trend. The Judy Backpack is your go-to for everyday wear and it’s made from durable faux leather. 

In the Bag

Make your everyday more sustainable with the Taylor Double Zip Cross Body Bag. Also made from faux leather, this bag has beautiful hidden details and card holders – so you’ll never lose your card again.

Recycle, Re-purpose

Wrap up during the cooler months with the Animal Patchwork Recycled Stole. Both pieces are part of our sustainable collection, Designed for Good. Super soft, these scarves add a unique pop of colour and print to your look, but they’re also made from recycled plastic bottles. There are plenty of patterns, from floral and map print to brushstrokes and more animal print

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To celebrate World Vegan Day, we are giving away a vegan bag – so head to our Twitter, follow us, and be in to win!

 

Crystal Drenching: From the Catwalk to Your Closet

When they said more is more, they were definitely talking about the latest trend to spark delight on the global catwalks – crystal drenching.

Models shone from head to toe with stunning headpieces, statement jewellery and crystal-adorned shoes. We’re fully on board with this trend but understand there’s a fine line between looking like a disco-ball and looking crystal chic…that’s why we’ve pulled together our most shining looks for everyone.

Fresh Flair

Make an entrance with a stunning hair piece that’ll add something standout to your collection, like the Bling Braid Multi Strand Comb Slide; pop in in the perfect pony, braid it in your plait … the options are endless. The Rainbow Jewel Hair Slides are an easy way to incorporate the trend in your everyday style – after all, who doesn’t want to sparkle on a Monday morning? 

Glow All Out

These sparkling statement earrings embrace the idea of more is more and are the easiest way to update any outfit this season. The Cup Chain Waterfall Earrings will glisten and swing in the light as you dance all night long. You also can’t go wrong with a sparkly update on the season’s hottest style – the hoop. The Billie Statement Drop Earrings will bring supercharged sparkle to your look, and your party-season wardrobe will thank you.

Anything but Basic

The beloved collar necklace has received a shimmering makeover this season, as seen on the runways. It’s the perfect way to add a little elegance to your outfit, while amping up your look – it’s all in the details. The Classic Pave Cut Out Collar Necklace will bring a touch of elegance to your look (and can be matched with the Classic Pave Cut Out Chandelier Earrings for ultimate glamour). If you prefer something understated that’ll still standout, try the Pave V Mini Collar Necklace, it’s the perfect match for your LBD. 

Sparkle Factor 100

A little glitz and a whole lot of glam, pick a product that sparkles as you move, with delicate fringing or dainty drops. The Freya Crystal Drop Ring Handle Clutch Bag brings the crystal drenching trend to any look. Carry the look throughout your whole outfit and pair your party-ready bag with the Crystal Cup Chain Slinky Drop Earrings or the Cup Chain Layered Choker Necklace (or both, more is more after all!)

 

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Autumn’s Top Trends With Francesca Perks

 We are fully embracing the change in season and all the fashion-related perks that come with it; think wrapping up in scarves and luxe new colour palettes. Here are our seasonal must-haves styled by fashion influencer, Francesca Perks.

The Jewel Tone Handbag

We get it, in the cooler months your wardrobe tends to lean toward the darker side; in other words black, black and black. Add a touch of colour to brighten up your outfit – and your mood – with a jewel tone handbag. Our fave hues?

Red Hot

On-trend croc print? Check. Detachable cross-body strap? Check. Bold colourway to add the ultimate pop of colour? Check. The Emma Croc Handheld Bag takes you from work to play with plenty of sophistication.

Green Queen

An update on the classic wintry hues of black, grey and navy, green is a fresh and on trend hue. Inject some vibrancy into your wardrobe with the Rebecca Croc Shoulder Bag (left) which features croc print and gold finishings. It’s the perfect size for an everyday bag; there’s space for keys, phone, book and snacks! The Dani Dome Cross Body Bag (right)  features touches of suede and comes in a chic domed silhouette, offering another unique update to your collection.

Star-bright Sparkle: Celestial-inspired headbands 

It’s no secret this season we are all about headbands and the celestial print (again), so, why not combine both? Whether you’re hiding a bad hair day or adding the finishing touch to a perfect blowdry, these hairbands will become your go to. Add something a little different to your look with the Shooting Star Embellished Wide Alice Hair Band (left),which is full of mystic eastern influences.  On the other hand for lovers of all things monochrome (with the added lush touch of velvet) the Velvet Star Embroidered Alice Hair Band is a bold yet simplistic touch.

 

The Beaded Bag

The definition of arm candy, the Check Beaded Shoulder Bag is created by hand with a mix of monochrome beads. This nostalgic take on our favourite childhood fashion accessory has an everyday-friendly long strap and just enough space for the important things.

The Faux Fur Stole

Cooler weather means snuggling up in all things cosy and for this we are thankful. The Luxe Faux Fur Stole is a glamorous addition to your winter warmer collection, taking you from morning commute to dinner out. The luxurious green hue is perfect for brightening up any dark and gloomy days.

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5 Pieces For The Cooler Months That Guarantee A Stylish Season

As the leaves start falling, we’re more than ready to embrace the cosiness of the cooler months that are upon us. Think bundling up in oversized scarves, wrapping your glove-clad hands around a hot chocolate and snuggling up for a girl’s night in. Whether you’re braving the elements or spending the night at home, look effortlessly cool with our top new season picks.

1. Wrapped up: The Wells Supersoft Blanket Scarf

During the colder months, we never leave the house without a scarf, whether it’s wrapped over our shoulders, snug around our neck or used as a blanket when the office AC is too high… The Wells Supersoft Blanket Scarf is perfect and will keep you cosy and chic in the cold. It also comes in a spectrum of colours, but we can’t go past these beautifully bold shades.

2. Best Foot Forward: The Real Suede Mule Slippers

The ultimate treat to yourself, the Real Suede Mule Slippers  will have you daydreaming of heading home and slipping into something a little more comfortable – literally. Made from luxurious real suede, they’re lined with cosy faux-fur to keep your toes toasty. There are a few brilliant hues to choose, a pair to match each pair of PJs, maybe?

3. Heads Up: The Bea Chunky Turnup Beanie

This season it’s all about the classic beanie so say hello to our Bea Chunky Turnup Beanie . It’ll brighten up dark days and not only keep you warm but also protect your hair from the inevitable winter frizz – bad hair days no more. If you’re feeling extra fabulous and fancy one day adorn the beanie with a stunning hair accessory like the Pearl Hair Pinsor stock up on various colourways to brighten up every day.

4. Soft Touch: The Faux Fur Tippet

Add a touch of timeless elegance to your look with the Faux Fur Tippet. This fluffy addition adds a luxe and glamorous touch and most importantly it keeps you warm during the colder, darker months while adding a cheerful colour injection. It’s also available in black for those who can’t break away from the beloved hue.

5. That’s a Wrap: The Holly Supersoft Blanket Scarf 

Last, but certainly not least, the pop-of-colour-scarf. We all know that our winter wardrobe tends to favour darker shades, which is why a bold piece can brighten your look. The Holly Supersoft Blanket Scarf features chunky fringing that adds a little special something and this striking red colourway is perfect. There are a few colourways to choose from, so pick a shade that complements your wardrobe best.

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Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Meet CoppaFeel! Ambassadors Charlie and Jess

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month (1st – 31st October) we’re proudly supporting breast cancer awareness charity, CoppaFeel! by donating £20,000 of the profits from our exclusive feel-good boutique collection of products. We caught up with the charities amazing ambassadors Charlie Launder and Jess Megan for a quick chat about life, self-love and the importance of getting hands on…

A: Hi ladies, please introduce yourselves!

C:  My name is Charlie, I’m 30 and I live in London. I have been married for almost exactly a year to my university sweetheart George. I am a personal trainer, specialising in pre and post-natal women. I started a business called Bumps & Burpees and I absolutely love helping women feel strong and amazing.

J: My name is Jessica and I’m a body image activist, curve model and very proud CoppaFeel! Ambassador. My job is focused on encouraging women to get to know their bodies on an intimate basis, as well as normalising them externally. Hey, hello, hi!

A: Why did you first get involved with CoppaFeel?

C: When I was 25 I found a lump in my breast, after watching Kris Hallenga’s documentary Dying to Live (she’s the charity’s founder) so I have a lot to thank CoppaFeel! for. I had that removed and luckily no further treatment was needed, but a year and a half later I found another lump in the same place and they discovered a few tumours that all needed urgent surgery. I have been supporting CoppaFeel! ever since and don’t stop talking about what they does to anyone who will listen.

J: Because my message is based around getting women to get to know themselves, both physically and mentally. When we recognise patterns and habits, we can identify bodily malfunctions. These can include mental health blips, missing periods and spotting the signs of cancer. CoppaFeel! was the perfect charity for me, so when I was asked to be an ambassador, I was totally thrilled.

A: Why is CoppaFeel!’s message of early diagnosis so important?

C: If we all learn what to look out for and to get into the habit of checking our boobs when we are young then we are all in a far better position to spot anything ‘odd’! By taking ownership of our bodies and knowing what feels right, we can confidently ask for the help we need if and when we need it.

J: If symptoms are detected early, it can increase the chance of successful treatment. Many frightened women have approached me in relation to their own breast cancer diagnoses or symptoms they are experiencing. They’re worried about the results, the future, and their families. I tell them that while it will be hard and sometimes scary, they can still stand even with shaking legs, and they CAN move forward. Fear is okay, its normal.

A: What advice would you give to someone who feels awkward talking about/checking their boobs?

C: Firstly, you don’t need to talk about checking your boobs if it makes you feel awkward… But you do need to do it! Do it in the comfort of your own house and don’t make it into a ‘big thing’. Have a quick check lying in bed, or standing in the shower – it takes no time at all but that could be saving you a lot of time and stress later on.

 J: We are all different. My breasts are saggy, with white stretch marks and large nipples, and they’ve been that way since I was sixteen. There, I said it! Breasts are a very normal and natural part of being human. We are all dangling, soft machines – there’s a lot of stuff happening in our big bodies all the time and occasionally malfunctions might happen. The only way you can know if something goes wrong is if you get to know your body intimately. Create a bond with your boobs!

A: What are your top tips to remind yourself to regularly check your boobs?

J: I have one tip and it’s the best tip ever (ever, ever, ever): Sign up to CoppaFeel!’s monthly text reminders HERE. They’re super fun, totally non-invasive messages that give you a little nudge every month.

A: What’s your favourite mantra or affirmation?

C: There can be no flowers without rain. When you have a bad day or receive some bad news it can feel all-consuming and like you’ll never get through it, but you will and when you do the good days will feel SO good.

A: Aside from boob-checking, what other self-care rituals do you have? 

J: I eat what I want. If I want a salad’s bowl worth of pasta, I eat a salad’s bowl worth of pasta. If I want to sleep, I sleep long and hard. Self-care isn’t so much about face masks and baths (although if that’s what you like, go for it!) it’s more about listening to your body and knowing what it wants. My biggest self-care treatment is spending time with my dog. He’s a chunky, short-haired rescue and it’s so soothing to be with him after a busy day walking around London.

A: How important is it for CoppaFeel! to partner with brands (… like us!)

 J: Breast cancer is an issue that affects so many and it’s such a worthy cause that needs as much awareness as possible. Influential brands such as Accessorize are vital not only for raising funds, but also to break down barriers of fear between ‘real life’ and the clinical aspects of cancer. Many women I speak to are frightened of hospitals, medical terminology and doctors. Familiarity brings comfort and big brands and corporations can provide this by bringing attention to important issues.

A: Finally, which are your favourite pieces from the Accessorize x CoppaFeel! collection?

C: With my job, I go to and fro from the gym a lot, and I love the printed drawstring pouch for keeping my gym trainers in. It works within my larger carry-all and I can’t get over the print – so cute!

J: The boob necklace! I have a million boob-shaped, boob-printed, boob-centric pieces in my house. I’m missing a boob shaped necklace in my life. A tiny set of golden boobs to perch on top of my boobs. Bliss.

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Design Stories: The Accessorize x CoppaFeel! Feel-Good Boutique

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month (1st – 31st October) we’re proudly supporting breast cancer awareness charity, CoppaFeel! by donating £20,000 of the profits from our exclusive feel-good boutique collection of products. Venture into the Accessorize design studio to discover more about the vision behind the range and the techniques used to create that eye-catching print…

The inspiration

“As a business that is predominately made up of women, providing accessories for women, it was a no-brainer to support such an amazing charity,” says Mary-Jane Ralston, Buying Manager at Accessorize.

“CoppaFeel! are so imaginative and light-hearted in the way that they aim to break the taboo surrounding talking about and checking your boobs (and pecs!) so an element of fun was very important to capture within our exclusive product range.”

“As a brand we design for girls and women of all ages, so it feels really important to support a charity that focuses on increasing awareness on something that touches almost all of our lives either personally, or through a friend or loved one. I now have a much greater understanding and how to check myself, and I think that our print symbolises that empowerment with a tongue-in-cheek edge.” – Georgie Chappel, Designer at Accessorize.

The design process

The print was developed in-house using a loose, illustrative style. “Abstract prints are big for AW19 anyway, and so this felt like a natural mix of artistic style, trend-influence and meaningful motifs,” explains Georgie.

Pink represents friendship, affection, harmony, emotional strength and inner peace, but it is the softer side of dominant, powerful red, so in the right shade it can still pack a punch. As well as being one of CoppaFeel!’s official colours (and pretty close to our very own brand coral!) the words ‘strength’ and ‘peace’ feel really relevant to this collection and the cause.

The collection

Once our in-house design team were happy with the scribbly ‘boob’ print, we printed it onto some of our best-selling pieces. The boutique collection includes three must-have bag shapes (a tote, wash bag and drawstring pouch), two delicate gold necklaces, a silk scarf, printed tee and cute motif keyring.

“I’m obsessed with the ‘pearly pair’ boobs necklace! Coincidentally there is a big trend in jewellery right now to feature faces and body parts, so this is the perfect piece to buy now and tick off a key trend whilst also supporting this fabulous charity.” – Mary-Jane Ralston, Buying Manager.

“2019 has been the year of the hair accessory, so our silk scarf looks likely to be a bestseller. The best thing is the versatility within this one single product – wrap it around your pony tail or weave into a messy bun. I also love the cute tee – it’s perfect with jeans for everyday.” – Georgina Chappell, Designer.

Education & empowerment

CoppaFeel! are the first breast cancer charity in the UK to solely create awareness amongst young people, with the aim of instilling the knowledge and tools they need to get to know their bodies. We admire the way they discuss and deliver a serious message in a light-hearted way, empowering us all to start healthy habits for life.

CoppaFeel!’s dream is that one day we can live in a world where ALL breast cancers are diagnosed at the earliest stage possible, at which treatments are more effective and survival rates are higher.

“Since working with CoppaFeel! I certainly feel more knowledgeable about checking my boobs and keep telling my friends to start doing so regularly. It’s really simple; cancer has no prejudices, it’s not embarrassed or self-conscious so why should you be?” – Mary-Jane Ralston, Buying Manager.

Getting to know your boobs could save your life – so sign up for a boob check reminder here and get hands on now!

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Accessorize x CoppaFeel! – The Feel-Good Boutique

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month (1st – 31st October) we’re proudly supporting breast cancer awareness charity, CoppaFeel! by donating £20,000 of the profits from our exclusive feel-good boutique collection of products.

Keep scrolling to discover more about CoppaFeel! and their incredible work in breast cancer education and discover our exclusive collection including three bags, two necklaces, a silk scarf and keyring

The Charity


CoppaFeel! are the first breast cancer charity in the UK to solely create awareness amongst young people, with the aim of instilling the knowledge and tools they need to get to know their bodies. We admire the way they discuss and deliver a serious message in a light-hearted way, empowering everyone to start healthier habits for life. Speaking of which, learn how to check yourself here.

CoppaFeel!’s mission is to ensure all breast cancers are diagnosed early by empowering women and men to check their boobs/pecs regularly (and from a young age). They also educate on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and empower people to seek advice from a doctor if symptoms persist, get worse, or cause worry.

Getting to know your boobs could save your life – so sign up for a boob check reminder here and get hands on!

The Boutique Collection

 

Taking our inspiration from CoppaFeel!’s mission and vision, approaching this collaborative collection with a light-hearted energy was key, so if you’re thinking that scribbly print looks a bit cheeky… You’re right! Our incredibly talented in-house design team illustrated lots and lots of boobs to make up this eye-catching pattern, with heart motifs running throughout. We printed it onto our zip-top wash bag, canvas tote, drawstring pouch and silk scarf.

STYLE TIP: Why not mix it up? You can wear our silk scarf in your hair, fasten it around your favourite handbag, wind in through your belt loops or tie it around your neck.

For those who favour more delicate details, we created two gold necklaces – the playful ‘pearly pair’ pendant and a pink-coloured heart. Mix these in with your other favourite necklaces for a trend-led layered look. Alternatively, fix our heart-motif key ring to your purse, keys or handbag.

 

Do good and feel good! Remember, £20,000 of the profits from this collection will go to CoppaFeel! to support their continued mission: That we can one day live in a world where ALL breast cancers are diagnosed at the earliest stage possible, at which treatments are more effective and survival rates are higher.

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Trend Icons: The 70’s Revival Edit

Introducing our Trend Icons series: Showcasing the iconic seasonal must-haves you need to buy this week, edited by some of our favourite influencers.

Throw it back to the seventies this autumn with tonal woven duffle bags, western-influenced saddle bags and oversized resin jewellery. Want a more subtle spin on the trend? Opt for coloured mock-croc with gold hardware, corduroy backpacks or snake-print shoulder bags. Here, Sallie Ball edits our new-in accessories, putting a fresh spin on the most-wanted retro look…

The Benni Saddle Bag

 

Our Benni saddle bag re-works the classic ‘saddle’ silhouette for the new season with a rich ochre body and snakeskin detailing. Sling this best-seller across your body for a hands-free care-free vibe; capturing the free-spirited essence of the seventies perfectly. Dress up your favourite denim for work to weekend style.

The Joanne Woven Duffle Bag

 

Say hello to a new-wave bohemian feel with our Joanne woven duffle bag. With drawstring closure and a slouchy feel, this bag doesn’t have to work hard to look great. It’s the just-landed laid-back addition you need for your autumn wardrobe and will keep you ahead of the influencers on this key trend.

The Corduroy Mini Backpack

 

Get your fix of seventies nostalgia with our mini cord backpack in trending ochre yellow. This really is a must-have piece; use it everyday for work-wear style points or add it to your dressed-down weekend looks for a trend-led edge.

The Accessories Edit

 

Layer resin beads, stack stretch bracelets and opt for a bigger, bolder earring than you ever have before; this is accessorising for the fashion-savvy. Opt for tonal shades of yellow, brown and cream and finish the look with a wide-brim fedora. Keep this look ‘undone’ and slightly mismatched for a relaxed effect.

The Ayda Snake Print Shoulder Bag

 

Introducing your transitional-season-saviour! This Ayda bag goes with just about anything and will update your ‘fits instantly — yes! With tonal snakeskin panels, a woven chain shoulder strap and gold hardware; this epitomises the more glamorous side of the seventies. Wear with ditsy florals like Sallie for a gorgeous feminine feel.

The Olivia Ring-lock Cross-body Bag

 

We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again; everyone needs an Olivia bag in their collection. This emerald green version is the perfect balance of trend and functionality. She may be small, but she packs a punch in terms of style. The cross-body strap is fully adjustable for a personalised perfect fit.

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Everything You Are: Camilla Rega

World, meet Camilla Rega. A scientist and postdoctoral training fellow at the Institute of Cancer Research, Camilla’s days are spent investigating breast cancer in a laboratory. But not one to put a limit on what she can achieve, she can be also be found in the dance studio, expressing herself through classical ballet. Here’s her story.

 

 

What does a typical day look like for you?

I go to the lab around 9:30-10am, but not without having had a massive breakfast first – I’m Italian so every meal must be enjoyed and made with love. My working day finishes around 6:30pm and after that, I get home for a snack. I usually do ballet twice a week, weekends too if possible. My body needs it! On weekends, I also tend to go out with friends to catch up and relax but sometimes I go to the lab for experiments.

 

 

Tell us about your passion…

I was three years old when I started dancing. I’d seen my older sister perform and fell in love with the costumes, the choreography and the music. I immediately wanted to start the year after and so I began to dance even though I was so little! Dancing feels like being in another world. Far away from everything. There is only your soul dancing through your body.

 

 

 

What have you learned from ballet?

Ballet has deeply shaped my personality. The dance world is tough. You have to make a lot of sacrifices but it’s worth it in the end. The take-home message is that to get things done, you have to be committed to it!

 

What makes you feel like you?

I like wearing simple accessories during ballet, like stud earrings, delicate rings, and fine necklaces. At weekend, I love wearing more eccentric jewellery with pared-back outfits.

 

 

Talk us through your style…

My look is super simple during my work days (comfy and clean for the lab!), and more elegant and chicer when I go out. I tend to wear silver accessories in wintertime and gold during summer (it looks better with a tan!) but it depends on what I wear.

 

What surprises people about you?

That I’m a scientist as well as a ballet dancer.

 

What advice would you give to your younger self?

You are living your own life, follow your dreams and fight for them!

 

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Everything You Are: Sharon Hoyos-Martinez

Everything You Are: Steph Tress

Everything You Are: Miriam Zouhou

Everything You Are

 

 

Everything You Are: Sharon Hoyos-Martinez

Meet Sharon Hoyos-Martinez. Football enthusiast and all-round go-getter, Sharon lives life outside of the box by being true to herself. Whether commanding the football pitch or the dance floor, she proves that life can be as multi-faceted as you are.

 

What does a typical day look like for you?

I currently work in business administration at a sports law company. My job involves staying up-to-date with all the current sports news, so this definitely motivates me to keep active and healthy as I read up daily on inspiring athletes and their incredible stories. In the evening, I will either have football training, strength and conditioning training at the gym, boxing training (for my upcoming charity fight) or yoga. I like to mix my exercise up and not stick to one main sport because this causes injury, so I like to keep it varied to activate all parts of my body also because I get bored easily. If I’m not training, I’m probably socialising with friends (we usually catch up over a meal as I’m a huge foodie!) or going to gigs together.

 

Tell us about your passion…

I started playing football when I was about six years old. Just at school, it was something that I was naturally drawn to. I think I had a lot of energy and sports was the best way to release it. I used to be the only girl playing. I’d arrive at school early just to play. After playing at a decent level, I didn’t have enough support or opportunity to continue, and eventually ended up coaching around the world with Arsenal. This was an invaluable experience that showed me how influential football, and sport in general, can be, wherever you may come from. Then, I came back to London to study International Football Business and graduated with a first-class honours degree.

 

 

How does football make you feel?

Now that I look back, I realise football made me feel free. It allowed me to express myself creatively on the pitch both physically and mentally. I realised it was a form of escapism from reality, when I was playing or training, I was solely focused on the present, nothing else matters at least for that hour or two. Don’t get me wrong – it can be very frustrating when you don’t win or perform at your best but that’s all part of it. You learn to bounce back. Playing in a team is something I really enjoy; you’re constantly striving for a goal together and this makes you feel part of something important.

 

 

Talk us through your style…

Original, mix of classic and new. London street, sporty chic. I usually dress for the occasion, I enjoy glamming up too, but if it’s not me, I won’t wear it. I think you are able to see both my feminine and tomboy nature in the way I dress. During weekdays, I can’t really wear jewellery because of training but on the weekend, you’ll probably catch me with like six rings and three necklaces!

 

What makes you feel like you?

I love accessories: hats, sunglasses and jewellery. I love details and think one item makes an outfit. I feel naked without my rings, and on a night out you’ll probably catch me wearing hoops – classic Latina. I love music and I am quite varied when it comes to genres. Dancing salsa really makes me feel alive. I grew up waking up to noise and music (my family is Colombian) so it’s a big part of me. Growing up in London, I’m also into hip-hop and grime and love working out to hype music – I get so gassed. Give me great music, sport and food and I’m a happy Shaz.

 

 

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Enjoy the process, enjoy the journey. Don’t care what others say or think. Authenticity is everything and being your truest self is the best way to shine.

 

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Everything You Are: Steph Tress

Everything You Are: Miriam Zouhou

Everything You Are

 

Everything You Are: Steph Tress

Showing us there’s more to an #Accessorizer than meets the eye, professional cellist Steph Tress expresses herself not only through her music but also through her personal sense of style. Welcome to her world…

 

What’s a typical day like for you?

There’s no such thing as a typical day in my life. I tend to be in different places each week and my schedule varies but obviously, I spend a lot of time playing the cello! Sometimes this means practising at home (in my pyjamas) and often rehearsing with other people. I have a string quartet and we get together for a few days of intensive rehearsal most weeks. Sometimes I spend the day recording in the studio while on others, I teach cello. On some evenings, I also perform in concerts.

 

 

Tell us about your passion…

I started playing the cello when I was six. Now, people are definitely interested when they see me travelling around with my cello. I’m often asked what instrument I’m carrying on the train or bus, usually followed by “it’s bigger than you!” (for the record, I’m 5’1”). It’s hard to know for certain what I’ve gained from playing the cello other than the enjoyment because I’ve been doing it for so long. But playing with other people requires sensitivity and the ability to really listen which I hope are skills I have outside of playing music too. Being freelance, I also have to be organised and super-motivated – it doesn’t come naturally so that is something I’ve had to learn!

What makes you feel like you?

I really love performing. Partly it’s just the joy of the music but I also think there’s an intensity of concentration that I get when I’m performing that I don’t really get in another situation. And I’ll be honest, I do enjoy getting lots of compliments after a concert!

 

 

 

How would you describe your style?

I like wearing a simple outfit with big earrings and a nice necklace. I’m not afraid to wear bold patterns and colour. I normally wear gold-based jewellery but often for concerts, I wear silver-toned metals because it’s more visible and sparkly on stage! On a night out, I always have to wear big earrings. Maybe that’s because I usually wear smaller earrings for concerts or teaching so it’s quite nice to feel glamorous.

 

 

 

How would your close friends and family describe you?

Hopefully, loyal, ambitious, hardworking and fun on a night out!

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Worry less, and worry less about worrying…

 

 

 

 

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Everything You Are: Miriam Zouhou

Everything You Are