Laces are fun for more than your shoes!

Aces Laces

Aces Laces

I met Alexis from Aces Laces a few months ago in London and I instantly loved her concept for collectible shoelaces for kids (and adults like me!!) The idea is simple, purchase a mystery bag of laces and fingers crossed you get the design you want, if you don’t then swap them with your friends. At the time I received two neon pairs and a pink pattern. I was slightly disappointed because I really wanted the retro tape design but that’s the luck of the draw.

IMG_4929

I recently received a few more designs, two fabulous pairs featuring the Aces Laces Graffiti Fox logo, a stripy pair and a surprise bag……

Which contained the tape laces!!!

Retro Tape Laces

Retro Tape Laces

Obviously these laces are meant to be used in your shoes but I think they’re almost too nice for that, so my kids and I have been thinking of some alternative uses. I think they’d also make great stocking fillers.

Lace Bracelet

Lace Bracelet

Alternative Use No. 1

Laces can be plaited together to make brilliant bracelets. Simple plaiting looks great but you could of course attempt more ambitious designs or just wrap them around as they are.

Shoelace Bunting

Shoelace Bunting

Alternative Use No. 2

For the crafty among you, these make a great alternative to bias binding or string in bunting. Lay and pin across your fabric flags (triangles) and sew into place.

Shoelace Dog Collar or Lead

Shoelace Dog Collar or Lead

Alternative Use No. 3

Sew them onto a plain dog collar or lead to add some style to your pooch!

Shoelace Card Hanger

Shoelace Card Hanger

Alternative Use No. 4

Hang up the laces and then use them at Christmas to peg your cards too.

Shoelace Bows

Shoelace Bows

Alternative Use No. 5

Use them instead of ribbons in your hair!

Shoelace Plaits

Shoelace Plaits

 

Of course they also look great in shoes!

Aces Laces

Details

For more info on Aces Laces and to view their range visit their website here.

A wonderful wintery escape with Zoggs

When winter frosts start to creep across the pathways and cars a holiday in the sun can suddenly seem very tempting. If you are lucky enough to be planning a winter sun break finding that perfect swimsuit can seem really difficult, plus the idea of trying things on in cold changing rooms is definitely less than appealing.

This makes shopping online and trying in the comfort of your own home seem the obvious choice. I have to be honest with you though, I couldn’t off hand think of any dedicated swimwear stores. Of course there’s always the sportswear shops, but often I’ve found their designs to be more function over form which doesn’t really fit with my idea of lounging by the beach.

210135_01 (2)However I have just been told about a great range of swimming costumes online at a store called Zoggs! Aside from having a really funky name (I think it sounds like a kids tv program) they seem to cater for all the family with swimsuits, accessories and even water aids for babies.

There were a lot flattering womens swimwear from Zoggs including leg suits, swim dresses, halters and much more! They also cater for all manner of cup sizes and body shapes. My own bugbear is being just that little bit too tall for standard swimming costumes.

300710dFor the little peeps in your life I can’t get over just how cute these swim caps are! I managed to avoid wearing one during my swimming lessons as a child but these days they are often compulsory (much to my kids disgust!) so a cap like this one might just help take the pain away somewhat.300710b1

I also like the look of these Zoggy search and rescue seals, they seem like a lot of fun for playing in the pool.301263

Details

To see Zoggs full range visit www.zoggs.com for full details.

Getting your home Christmas Ready with 5 top tips

snow gardenIt’s far too early to start decorating for the festive season but that doesn’t mean you can’t be super organised and start getting your house Christmas ready!

For most of us Christmas is almost synonymous with an increase in clutter, the area by your tree becomes hard to sweep, dust or hoover and those sparkling lights can draw your eye to unfinished DIY or tired furnishings. So come November you can start preparing your house or room for the forthcoming decorations.

Tip 1 – Watch the Paint

If you’re expecting visitors this festive season, consider tidying up your paintwork on walls or woodwork. A quick coat can create a dramatic difference.

Tip 2 – Furnishings

Hire or buy a steam cleaner and get those furnishings looking fabulous! Or if you’d rather replace them look at discount stores in your area or online, for example you can often pick up really stylish curtains from TJ Hughes.

Tip 3 – Reorganise

Having a reorganisation of furniture doesn’t just freshen up the look of your room, it can provide extra space for your tree! We even move chairs to other rooms just for a few weeks. If you’re expecting guests perhaps consider some affordable cushions and home accessories to freshen the look of your room and potentially add extra seating (large cushions can be used like a bean bag).

Tip 4 – Temporary storage

Don’t squeeze those decorations in, make room for them by boxing up some of your daily décor and pop it away in the loft or garage for a few weeks.

Tip 5 – The obvious one!

Tidy tidy tidy, it will be harder to clean, dust or hoover so make sure you get a really good clean in just before getting the decorations up.

Of course though the most important thing is to have fun and try not to get too stressed!