Autumn Additions: The Black Ravens - Gothic Jewellery Review

Hey Bloggers!

Long time no speak. First off, let me start by saying you have permission to slap me on the wrist for the distinct lack of content lately. Since my last post, a tortoise could have crossed the finish line by now, haha! ;) The good news? After my recent hiatus, the time away has inspired me with lots of exciting new post ideas to share with you all in the coming months - so watch this space, guys and gals.

Now that we've caught up, let's get into the zone about today's post shall we? It's a doozy and involves reviewing some GORGEOUS Gothic jewellery which I've added to my #autumn collection. 

I've recently had the pleasure of getting acquainted with an emerging brand that has since become my go-to for all things goth, punk and alternative, and I'm particularly fond of their amazing accessories. 

Let's start by introducing their brand name - I mean how cool does The Black Ravens sound? Pretty damn cool by my reckoning. Whether you're looking for a few spooky additions ready for #Halloween or you're in need of some affordable fashion buys to darken up your Autumn/Winter '18 Edit, The Black Ravens are the holy grail of online alt. retailers.

So without further adieu, here are the jewellery pieces I'm raving about this season (see what I did there?)

Black Triangle Choker Necklace 

Somewhere between a necklace-choker hybrid, this statement edition would definitely be my 'desert island' necklace. If I could only bring one jewellery item with me, this would be the main attraction. Not only does it come with a striking gem-embellished design that guarantees to collect compliments day or night, it also has a strong black rope which serves as the chain. Since I've always been a fan of black coloured jewellery, this piece offers a comfortable fit, a look that's aesthetically pleasing for any occasion, AND a triangular pendant that's 100% unique. So in terms of statement accessories, The Black Ravens have ticked all the right boxes while appealing to my inner goth chic.

Rose Gold and Black Single Band Ring

Next on my autumnal list of must-haves is this two-tone men's ring. Let's just address the sheer frustration of shopping for anything fashion related when you're a curvy gal! The majority of today's high street accessory brands don't offer XL-sized rings, so this minimalist piece is definitely a conversation starter for me. Sure, this is technically a guy's ring, but with the elegant rose gold band, who can tell, right? I find there's bucket-loads more variety once you branch out into the unisex (or men's) departments. What I LOVE about this ring - apart from its alternative look - is the fact that it's crafted from an authentic + solid Tungsten metal that stays scratch-free and won't tarnish. Anyone who knows me will know I never leave home without a fistful of rings to show off, and this single band will forever be ranked among my fave middle finger rings. There's no stacking required either as it's attractive enough to rock without other rings to distract the eye. 

Rose Gold Plated + Diamond Skull Stud Earrings

Image Credit: The Black Ravens

Three is the magic number, and these adorable skull earrings make a glistening gift for Halloween or Christmas! If you're after a pair of studs that are A) Not too small and B) Have instant Gothic appeal while still remaining pretty, these rose gold gems belong in your collection. I'm not one to follow the crowd when it comes to style, but unless you've been living under a rock you'll have noticed rose gold is EVERYWHERE right now: On our Instagram feeds, on the street style blogger round-up, at this year's #FashionWeek, and of course - emerging in full force on the high street at every opportunity. Love it or hate it, I personally cannot get enough of everything rose gold, so naturally, these earrings offer a luxe finishing touch that's right up my street. They also make the perfect fuss-free choice for those windy 'out and about' days while hustling from A to B.  



So there you have it: 3 key pieces from The Black Ravens which I can personally vouch for in terms of unique Gothic design, quality craftsmanship and affordability. Check out their website for up and coming pieces, then go and bag an accessories haul for yourself - you won't be disappointed! 


Thanks for reading, lovelies. ^^

Until next time,

Dawn xx  
  

Athleisure: NOT Just Another Fashion Trend

Written by Dawn Wood

Move over prim and proper, it's time for athleisure to take charge of your smart-casual dress-code. While temperatures outside may be hotting up, nevertheless, fashion continues to hone in on the importance of comfort. July is all about creating a summer wardrobe that's stylish, accessible and wearable. But if the thought of shelving your favourite sweatshirts is making you anxious, not to worry ladies - the athleisure trend has got you covered from head to toe.

Imagine this... if sports and fashion had an offspring, athleisure would be the beautiful hybrid result. Think second-skin lycra leggings with bright graphic prints, slouchy jersey hoodies with modern mesh textures, black trainers with neon laces, oversized sweaters adorned with sporty slogans... the list goes on.

Many of us are choosing to take charge of our health and fitness goals right now. Setting realistic life goals is always a good habit to get into, especially if you want to make exercise a regular lifestyle choice. If you've made joining the gym your number one priority, you've freed up more time to walk the dog, or even if it's something as simple as walking to work and back, there's endless exciting ways to keep moving this summer. And it's reassuring to know that even the smallest active changes can make a big difference to your well being.

When you choose fashion and comfort, this conjures the best of both worlds – you can go about your busy day and look fabulous while doing it!

Let's face it though, no-frills sportswear starts to look a little drab when you're wearing it day in day out. So it's the fashion-meets-function element that really makes the athleisure trend so appealing. If you're the type of person who's always on the move, but you never leave home without a slick of lipstick and a stylish outfit to boot, athleisure pieces are your best friend!

Remember: your wardrobe should work for you come rain or shine, so there's no excuse not to look glam with so many trendy options available online, and on the high street today.

So how should we be channeling this super cool fashion look? Here are two versatile ways to get the athleisure look:

For Fitness

There's a new wave of fashion and lifestyle brands showcasing matching workout top and legging sets, and these are ideal to wear whenever you're hitting the gym. Athleisure clothing offers a wide selection of colours, prints, cuts and fits for everybody, so you can easily mix 'n' match an outfit to suit your fitness activity that day. Whether you're colour co-ordinating a water bottle and towel with your sports bra, or a long sleeve moisture wicking top with UV accents is your must-have outer layer for an evening run; the athleisure trend means you'll be spoiled for practical outfit choices any day of the week.

Outside the Gym

Heading out for a health-kick smoothie straight after your workout? No problem. Go for a lightweight bomber jacket for your outerwear layer. Underneath, your base layer might be a cute crop top, or a slouchy tee if you feel like rocking your favourite sportswear brand.

Athleisure prides itself on layering, so feel free to add or subtract pieces when you're heading outdoors.

Of course, make sure you're dressed for the occasion too. If you want to turn up the colour, include a few neon accents to complement any neutral or darker pieces in your outfit. Fluro soles and laces, yoga pants with striped accents and coloured waistbands work well, especially for hi-vis radar!

Not a fan of neon? Go for lycra leggings with just a few graphic sections on the legs to give your look a fashion-forward touch. An embroidered silk bomber or classic denim jacket are two other popular choices to throw over your casual tee for fun leisure and free time dates.

With athleisure upping the game for sportswear, and steering fashion towards comfort as well as aesthetics - this is one lifestyle trend that's relevant no matter what season is on your calendar.  

Keep Those Peepers Peeled Folks!