Thrifty Summer Challenge!

Hello lovelies :)

I recently received a lovely email from VoucherCodes.co.uk asking me to participate in their “Thrifty Summer Blogger Challenge”. As a serial online browser and extremely impulsive online shopper, this challenge was right up my alley!

I am personally a huge fan of VoucherCodes.co.uk and have always used it in the past – it’s always worth checking to see if the purchase you’re about to make could be made cheaper. I honestly think that VoucherCodes.co.uk has the clearest and best selection of voucher codes AND printable vouchers (for restaurants, gyms – you name it!) and am subscribed to their newsletter which delivers their latest and most popular offers right into your inbox. Not only do they comprehensively update their website with the newest deals and offers but they also have exclusive offers, codes and vouchers that are only available through them. I’ve just discovered a new exclusive Oasis free delivery code and am very tempted to treat myself to something nice...

ANYWAY :)

Without further ado, here are my top 10 thrifty and versatile summer picks, all under £40!

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10. A cag-in-a-bag

Perhaps the most versatile and useful item you could have in your summer canvas bag (see below) - these two (Blue and Cherry) are £25 from Cath Kidston.

9. A canvas bag

To throw everything into - much more summery (and much lighter!) than your normal handbag. This canvas satchel is bang on trend and available from Oasis at £35.

8. A fun pair of shorts

A definite must-have for summer, Miss Selfridge has a great range in florals, hearts (pictured, £30) or just plain and simple denim - wear with bare legs and flip flops and try to convince summer to last! (And if it doesn't, wear 'em with tights).

7. A quirky pair of sunglasses

Both of these pairs are from Topshop and will definitely help you stand out from the crowd. Wear the nude pair to tone down bright colours (£18) and pair the palm trees with neutrals (£16).

6. A pair of espadrilles

Sandals would be the obvious choice for summer but they can only be worn during the REALLY summery periods of the year and if you've ever lived in Britain then you'll know that they are far and few between! Espadrilles can be worn right into autumn with tights or leggings. Either go with TOMS for the feel good factor (£30) - every pair bought by you results in the company giving a pair to a child in need - or try out Havaiana's take on the trend with their bright colours and that famous ultra-comfy rubber sole (£22). Both available at Office.

5. A go-with-everything hat

This sleek white fedora from ASOS will keep the sun out of your eyes and go with all outfits, whether you're on the beach, strolling along the high street or making a statement on a night out.

4. A sporty bikini


Both of these scuba-inspired numbers are from Topshop at £28 (Mint and Coral) and I'm just in love with their simple lines and striking colours. These suits will last you through the years and look interesting and fashion-forward at the same time. They'll also stay on when you dive into the pool (which is more than I can say for most of my "pretty" bikinis!).

3. A delicate headband

Get in touch with your inner greek goddess with this Lipsy headpiece at ASOS.com. Need I say anything more? This is such a gorgeous gold accessory with an intricate leaf and flower design which would brighten up any outfit. Pixie Lott actually owns this exact headband - don't believe me, google it! (£12)

2. A khaki dress

Khaki is definitely huge this summer and I predict that this colour will remain popular as we go into A/W 2010. It's sexy and sophisticated and not as obvious as florals ("Florals? For summer? Groundbreaking." - Miranda Priestly, The Devil Wears Prada). This zip up dress by H by Henry Holland at Debenhams hits all the right buttons with adorable buckle details at the shoulder and would be perfect with gladiator sandals or ballet pumps for the day or a pair of peep toe ankle boots for a night out. (£35)


............. and my number ONE thrifty summer item?

1. A classic pair of converse



For day and night, barbeques and dancing the night away - these old favourites handle it all. Try them in classic white or be daring with red. Available from Office, amongst many other websites.

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Hope you enjoyed! Leave a comment if you have any other suggestions for key summer items :)

Love,
Geisha
xoxo