Diamante Decadence

There is a time and a place for subtlety and demure and bashfully fluttering your eyelashes and trying to blend into the scenery.

 

And with all due respect, sister, the time for that ain't Christmas.

 

Not when it's party season, not when it's ball season and not when you're trying to snare the spotlight for yourself.

 

Which brings me to this little beauty, an extravagant exercise in diamante delight.

 

Our customers know that Glamour & Sparkle are no stranger to dazzling evening sets.

 

But this time we've excelled ourselves in landing the diamante mother lode, a Death Star of diamantes worthy of Princess Leia and her gold bikini, a piece of jewellery that will blow away the competition, light up the darkest night and quite possibly divert aircraft from their flight paths.

 

This is a piece for the true divas among you, those girls who know what it takes to accessorise a ball gown and bathe in the spotlight of their own radiance.

 

Whether you're heading for the Enigma Ball or are simply determined to make the ultimate statement on your special night out, this is for you.

 

This spectacular necklace is accompanied by a pair of dazzling earrings which are hardly understated in comparison.

 

Guaranteed to deliver the ultimate Christmas outfit, this extravagant piece will place you just where you deserve to be - at the centre of attention.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/Evening-Sets/Grand-Diamante-Set

A Bracelet Fit For A Queen

There's definitely something to be said for Celtic design.

 

The intricate curves, the craftsmanship and the skill echoes down the ages, even if the echoes come from a time when our ancestors were seriously overdoing it with the blue eye shadow.

 

And the blue lipstick.

 

And the blue body paint.

 

Anyway, I think you get the point.

 

But enough of primitive Celtic make-up techniques, and on to something that has most assuredly stood the test of time (notwithstanding the fact I picked up some awesome blue eye shadow in Poundland last week), this simple yet stunning Celtic bracelet.

 

And this is no ordinary piece of Celtic craftsmanship.

 

A distinguished Latin scholar (no less an authority than someone with a GCSE in the subject) has speculated that this diamante encrusted bracelet is based on the exact design of one worn by legendary warrior queen Boadicea, when she bitch-slapped the Romans.

 

The original Essex girl took great delight in polishing off a few Italians in rapid time (today her descendants take a similar approach at the end of the night when scoffing a Spicy Hot One with extra cheese from the takeaway).

 

However, despite the fact that she was a dab hand at dispensing butchery and slaughter, as befits any true queen Boadicea loved her jewellery, including bracelets, torques, the odd exotic native piercing and reputedly a pair of Roman balls for earrings.

 

So if you fancy channelling your Ancient Briton (big hair and big boobs) or Warrior Queen (big hair and big boobs), then this bracelet is for you.

 

And at the moment it's reduced by 25% so you needn't tear up the local Roman settlement to get your hands on it!

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/Bracelets-Bangles?product_id=204

Chandeliers & Candelabras

There's a time and a place for hiding behind the candelabra.

 

However, given the right frock and the right pair of earrings, it's far more fun to dress like one, resplendent in a sea of silver.

 

At Glamour & Sparkle we have always built the cornerstone of our collection on our great range of clip on earrings.

 

As it's the time of year to really push the boat out in the glamour stakes, we're delighted to bring you the defining word in statement earrings, a pair of simply stunning earrings that are worthy of a red carpet event in themselves.

 

These splendid sparklers feature a pair of crystals bound together with diamante strands. The effect is a stunning four inch drop that will take the breath away and place you firmly in the spotlight.

 

They can also be used as a secret weapon that Mata Hari would have sold her soul and her lipstick for - should you be the victim of any unwanted attention, simply flick your head in the most disdainful, yet demure, manner imaginable and delight in the sight of your undesirable suitor recoiling in horror at the prospect of losing an eye to your flashing earring.

 

They're brash, they're brazen and they're oh so you!

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/Clip-On-Earrings/Double-Crystal-Earrings

 

 

 

 



Festive Fun

It's that time of year again, a time when thoughts turn to Christmas parties, stunning frocks, festive balls - be they the type that jingle, involve a red carpet or any other sort of balls you ladies care to think of - and most importantly stocking up on some dazzling new accessories.

 

Yes, girls, 'tis the season to be shiny.

 

So whether you're searching for something that will perfectly complement your ball gown (unfortunately we don't do studs in tuxes), a statement piece of jewellery to dazzle work colleagues at the Christmas party (regrettably we can't offer insurance against photocopier misadventures) or a stunning bit of bling to take the breath away on a night out, then check out the new range at Glamour & Sparkle.

 

We've got everything you could want in a wide range of colours - gorgeous golds, seductive silvers, brilliant bronzes. Even our own brassy tart, Miss Lexie Lixx, has found something she's desperate to get her hands on - and we're not talking about a millionaire rugby player (not this time, anyway).

 

Regardless of whether you're after a bracelet or brooch, a ring or evening set, Glamour & Sparkle is your one-stop call for all the sparkly goodness you need this Christmas!

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/

Cumbrian Pride

It's set to be a busy week at Glamour & Sparkle as we make our regular stop off at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Leeds for October's LFF event before setting off for Carlisle.

 

Once we've finished in Leeds we'll be heading north through the night en route to the Swallow Hilltop Hotel for this year's Cumbria Pride.

 

It promises to be a fabulous day out with plenty of entertainment and plenty of opportunities to do a spot of shopping.

 

The event kicks off at 1pm and we'll be there all day to help cater for all your needs and offer any advice you may have as you search for that perfect accessory.

 

We'll be there with a wide range of our latest fashions and designs, so whether you're after a bit of bling, searching for the perfect evening set ahead of the party season or just fancy some new earrings to add a little sparkle to your day, then make sure you stop by and see us.

 

http://www.cumbriapride.org/

The Big Weekend

We're off to Milton Keynes this weekend for the second annual Big Weekend Out at Pink Punters nightclub.

 

After the success of last year's inaugural event, we're really looking forward to another great day out.

 

With more than 20 stalls and traders on hand, there is certain to be something for everyone.

 

Regardless of whether you're looking for a new frock, a vibrant new hairstyle or simply fancy a chat and a cup of tea, there's something to cater for all tastes and demands.

 

And for all you girls heading to Pinks on Saturday night for the dazzling Hollywood theme night, make sure you check out the Glamour & Sparkle stall.

 

We're bringing a fantastic array of costume jewellery, with everything from chokers and tiaras to our stunning new collection of evening sets that are guaranteed to add a little extra something to that elegant gown.

 

And with the Enigma Ball not too far away, what better time to pick up that must-have piece that is certain to make you the belle of the ball?

 

See you all on Saturday!

 

http://www.thebigweekendout.co.uk/

Bangles & Bows And Ribbons & Rings

As we prepare to bid a fond adieu to summer - well, to be honest it was less of a summer and more of a brief dalliance with the sun for a couple of days - the good news is that the Glamour & Sparkle stocks have been replenished with a whole new range of must-have autumn accessories.

 

Our new range includes earrings, rings, and some stunning new bangles that might not necessarily have you walking like an Egyptian but will certainly add a little extra fun to those manic Mondays.

 

Following our Scarborough sabbatical last month, we will be back in our usual haunt at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Leeds this week (Friday September 6).

 

As ever we will have a wide selection of goodies for you to peruse at your leisure and find the perfect accessory for your outfit. So regardless of whether you're looking for a bangle to put a little snap in your step, a statement necklace or a pair of earrings to let the world know how stunning you are, stop by and see us and we'll do whatever we can to help.

 

We hope to see as many of you as possible on Friday and if you can't make it to the Cosmo, kick off your heels, relax with a glass of wine and check out our website for our full range of divine accessories.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/

 

 

Hurry To Harrogate!

August is upon us, the summer is in full swing and after a fantastic weekend at Sparkle, the Glamour & Sparkle chic boutique is heading for Harrogate for the latest Beaumont Society event.

 

Stretching from August 1-4, Kay's Harrogate Weekend is the latest big event in the calendar and promises to be a fantastic weekend for everyone.

 

The delightful Cairn Hotel is the setting for the event and Glamour & Sparkle will be there to help provide you with everything you need to help your weekend go with a swing.

 

We will have a wide range of jewellery and accessories with us, so regardless of whether you're searching for a ruby in a mountain of rocks, a diamond to give you license to thrill, an opal to make your eyes water or a spectacular bit of bling to make you feel like a glitter ball on heels, make sure you stop by and see us.

 

We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible and hope you all have a fantastic weekend in Harrogate.

 

http://www.beaumontsociety.org.uk/Events/Harrogate%20weekend.pdf

Time To Sparkle

The sun is out, the rain has stopped (for the moment anyway) and it's the time of year when all roads lead to Manchester for the Sparkle celebration.

 

Once again we will be bringing the Glamour to Sparkle on Saturday July 13 when you will be bale to visit us at our stall in Sackville Gardens during the Sparkle in the Park event.

 

We will have a stunning array of items on display, ranging from rings to tiaras, necklaces to bracelets, earrings to handbags and much, much more.

 

Whether you're searching for the killer accessory to top off your favourite outfit, hunting for the perfect evening set to make you the belle of the ball (or, like our own Miss Lixx, a belle with balls) or simply in search of something that's fun and ever so slightly over the top, then we have the perfect range for you.

 

Guaranteed to never be knowingly understated, pop by the Glamour & Sparkle stall on Saturday and discover riches and treasures beyond your wildest dreams.

 

Well, perhaps not your wildest dreams - if you dream of the Cullinan Diamond on a nightly basis you may be out of luck. But we certainly have the capability to provide you with all you need to live out some pretty wild dreams in fabulous style.

 

See you in the park!

 

http://www.sparkle.org.uk/index.php/the-weekend/sparkle-in-the-park

Black Magic

Whether it's a Model T Ford, a little black dress or the rather delectable Stacey Ann Ferguson from the Black Eyed Peas, you can't go far wrong with black.

 

Not unless you're talking about chocolates, in which case steer well clear of Black Magic as they're rubbish; it's also a good idea to avoid black ice if you can.

 

Where was I?

 

Ah, yes. At the end of the day no one ever looked unstylish or uncool because they were sporting a bit of silver and black bling.

 

Therefore we highly recommend this silver and black necklace and earring set. It's a stunning combination with a ridiculously low price.

 

Guaranteed to look good with a ball gown or party dress, this will ensure you make a statement on your next night out.

 

It won't be around for long so check it out now on the Glamour & Sparkle website.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/Silver-Black-Set

 

 

Leeds Summer Ball

Once again it's a time to break out the ball gowns, polish the tiaras and buff up the bling for one of the big events of the year.

 

On Friday June 21 the Cosmopolitan Hotel will be staging the Second Annual Leeds Transgender Ball.

 

It's a night for girls to strut their stuff in their finest frocks (not to mention a chance for the men in their life to swap those checked shirts for something a little more classy).

 

If Yosemite Sam and his favourite Bunny can enjoy a moment of tenderness and sophistication, there's no reason you can't too!

 

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased at the monthly Leeds First Friday event. Tickets cost £40 and those attending will be greeted with a glass of bubbly on arrival before enjoying a three course meal, wine at the table and later a disco and live band.

 

This promises to be a fantastic night out and Glamour & Sparkle will be on hand before the event to help provide reassurance and emergency supplies of bling for any girl who needs them - we'll have a wide array of tiaras and evening sets with us, so feel free to drop by and find the perfect piece to complete your look.

 

You can also browse our fantastic range of chokers, tiaras and evening sets at your leisure beforehand by checking out our website.

 

We look forward to seeing you soon.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/Evening-Sets

Precious

No matter what outfit you've chosen for your night out - or if you're feeling particularly glamorous, a trip to Lidl - it's always essential that you choose the right ring to complete the look.

 

Regardless of whether we're talking about the sort of sparkler that Richard Burton gave Liz Taylor or the type of over-the-top knuckleduster that will leave a queen dragging her wrist along the ground, a girl needs a ring.

 

We're delighted to announce that Glamour & Sparkle are introducing a new range of statement rings, stunning pieces that are guaranteed to blow away the competition and ensure you can give them the finger without even having to go to the effort of raising that delicate digit.

 

Our new Precious collection showcases some of the most glamorous and exotic rings that you could wish for on a night out.

 

Our range includes peacocks for you birds who like to show your feathers, butterflies for those demure creatures among you who love to spread your wings, a winged crystal skill for you Goth chicks and biker babes, to say nothing of the most gorgeous turtle's head you're ever likely to see, peaking out from beneath its blue crystal shell.

 

For all these and other exciting rings, please check out our Precious collection now.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/Precious

It's Not Camp, It's Vile

As any girl will tell, you there's a lot to be said for the right hotel, especially when you're up for enjoying your Big Night Out.

 

Obviously luxury has its price; after all, you don't expect satin sheets, a chocolate on the pillow, complimentary fancy soaps and a state of the art hairdryer (not forgetting a top-notch cooked breakfast complete with hash browns) for £19.99.

 

Yet on the whole it shouldn't be impossible to find a hotel that provides a decent, cheerful service and manage to conjure up towels which are neither threadbare nor the size of a Balinese dancing girl's miniskirt.

 

A bar where they don't charge the earth or call last orders at around 10 o'clock is always nice too.

 

Of course, sometimes you just have to accept that you've stumbled into a less salubrious version of the Bates Motel, accept that you're being fleeced, sip your drink quietly and then commit your thoughts to verse...

 

I'm just a happy crazy girl

I've danced all around the world

I've stayed up til dawn in high heeled shoes

But I've stayed nowhere near as vile

As the god-damned Campanile

It gives a happy girl nothing but the blues

 

 Well there's bloodstains on the floor

And the mould climbs up the wall

And the sheets are more than 50 shades of grey

Their precious towels are frayed and old

Plus the water's always cold

And it's guaranteed you won't enjoy your stay

 

As for the Campanile's own bar

I'd sooner sit out in the car

And just sip diesel to keep out the chill

Their Chardonnay's not sweet it's sour

They call last orders at an early hour

And the prices are sure to make you ill

 

Now it's been said that I'm a tramp

But I won't go back to the camp

I want no more third rate hospitality

Cos I'm sick of high price drinks

And the service really stinks

It ain't good enough for a glam TV



En Garde Avec L'Avant Garde

Sometimes there's something to be said for subtlety.

 

If you want to go for the understated look, there's a lot to be said for simple Audrey Hepburn chic, teaming a timeless shift dress with minimal accessories.

 

Yet if the Audrey look is such a winner, why are so few celebrities blessed with the name Audrey?

 

After all, if someone's talking about how they watched Audrey on television the other night, they're almost certainly talking about catching up on the latest episode of Corrie.

 

In America, stars do not come much more glamorous than Audrey Faith Perry. Yet the young Audrey Perry was so underwhelmed by her given name that she elected to storm the charts as Faith Hill.

 

The point is that the days of Audrey - much like the days of subtlety - belong to a bygone era.

 

Today, it might not necessarily be simply all about the bling, but it definitely helps when you're looking to make a statement on a night out.

 

And if you are determined to make an entrance on a night out, dazzle on the red carpet or simply put your friends in the shade, these wonderful avant garde style earrings are just the thing.

 

Guaranteed to put you at the forefront of today's fashion crowd, these earrings come with guaranteed 'wow' factor and are destined to be a big hit with those girls who aren't afraid to be seen.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/Clip-On-Earrings/Avante-Garde-Earrings

12 Good Reasons

Spring is here (not that you'd know it if you've been splashing through the puddles in your high heels) and it's the perfect time to add a little sparkle to your jewellery collection.

 

For those of you who can't wait for the Easter Bunny to bring you the egg of your dreams (incidentally, do bunnies eat eggs themselves, or just deliver them?), we've got a fantastic offer for you to enjoy.

 

Throughout March and April Glamour & Sparkle are offering free delivery on all orders over £12.

 

With a fantastic new range of earrings on offer, plus dozens of other exciting new arrivals, there's no excuse not to treat yourself.

 

Just spend over £12 and the postage is on us - the jewellery will look great on you.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/index.php?route=common/home

Make Your Mother's Day

There are only a few days to go to one of the most important days of the year, a day when to get things even slightly wrong means a lifetime (well, an hour or two at least) of indignant recrimination and snide comments about wicked children and rhetorical discourses about carrying such an ungrateful burden for nine months.

 

If you're anxious to unleash such a whirlwind of resentment about your head on March 10, then feel free to head off down to your nearest pound shop and snap up a box of Maltesers and the cheapest card you can find - or better yet wait until next Sunday and buy some half-dead flowers from the petrol station - and present them to your mother.

 

On the other hand, if you want to give her a gift that you feel is a suitable token of appreciation for all the sacrifices she has made on your behalf, for all the times she's washed and ironed your clothes, fixed the strap on your favourite shoes, assured you that you're the only one in the family with the ability to look good in that dress and generally kept calm and not freaked out when you've raised the possibility of going out in a frock that could generously be regarded as a little short, then we have just the thing for you.

 

More importantly we have just the thing for your mother.

 

Whether you're after a ring that will make her feel like the central character in her favourite period drama, a necklace that will bring a smile to her face, an elegant bracelet that will go with any outfit, or even an evening set that she can wear the next time she escorts her favourite daughter on a night out - or better yet can flaunt in the face of her friends with less angelic children - Glamour & Sparkle have the right gift for you.

 

Drop by the website to see our fantastic range of gifts that will make your mother's day.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/Mothers-Day

Frocks & Rocks

February is drawing to a close which means Lent is in full swing and we're counting down to Easter which - if you're like me - means trying not to worry too much about the effect of too many chocolate eggs.

 

It's hard to accept that something that tastes so good can wreak so much havoc on your hips.

 

Anyway, as a girl who has never really seen the point of denying herself anything - frankly life's too short, I don't have the willpower and how could I be mean to myself when I'm so cute - I'm happy to announce that at Glamour & Sparkle we have some new fantastic new items that we feel sure will put a smile on your face and a spring in your step.

 

This might just be our most fantastic ring yet, something so sparkling and frankly so precious that Gollum really would sell his soul for it.

 

This fabulous ring is guaranteed to get the rocks off of even the most jaded of jewellery aficionados (figuratively speaking of course).

 

Our latest ring is ensured to land not just one, but two knockout blows in the style stakes.

 

The large clear stone is certain to make a statement and is the perfect complement to one's outfit on a night out when you're dressed to impress.

 

At the same time the intricate and incredibly feminine diamante detailing around the side of the ring will catch the light and add extra shimmer to your sashay.

 

We'll be at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Leeds on Friday March 1 to help you kick off LFF with a bang and to help out with any last minute fashion disasters that may have befallen you.

 

Drop by and see us and check out our new range of rings and things and gasp with delight and amazement at our enchanted selection and wonder just how you managed to live before you tried one of our sparklers for size.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/Large-Clear-Ring

 

 

Love Is In The Air

 February 14 is nearly upon us once more, which means it is again almost time to commemorate the Martyr Valentinus who died on the 14th of February on the Via Flaminia close to the Milvian bridge in Rome back in the third century by showering the one we love with chocolates, roses and serious bling.

 

Personally I'm not sure what a Roman saint has to do with being treated to the lingerie and perfume I deserve, but then again I didn't have time to study Wikipedia too carefully.

 

Yet regardless of whether you're counting on your other half to treat you to something special this year, or are simply resigned to pampering yourself or stuffing your face with love-hearts on the perfectly reasonable grounds that all men are twats and you're better off without one, Glamour & Sparkle have selected a fabulous range of jewellery to help you celebrate the day in style.

 

So whether you fancy cutting a dash in rubies, sparkling in diamantes or flaunting a spectacular piece of crystal, we have something that's just right for you.

 

Check out our Valentine's range now!

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/Valentine-Day

 

 

Leeds Meens Moobs

Well...

 

What does one say to the news that Leeds - the city that rocks, the city never sleeps - appears to have been built on sausage rolls.

 

What else can one say in the wake of a nationwide survey that reveals Leeds has been officially labelled as the Moob Capital of the United Kingdom, nipping in ahead of Swansea and Glasgow to, ahem, breast the tape first, as it were.

 

Fortunately the spotlight won't be on the chaps with chests this Friday night as it's the second Leeds First Friday event of 2013.

 

This means that the girls will be out in force, squeezing themselves into an ever-so-slightly tight bra to enhance their assets.

 

As you can see from the photo, our own Miss Lixx, that demure sweet young lady, knows a thing or two about making the most of her natural charms; it just goes to show that there's no point in shelling out thousands for implants when a Matalan bra can have such a magical effect.

 

After all, it's not every girl who can persuade a happily married woman to cop a feel simply by playfully juggling her, erm, jugs in a suitably provocative manner.

 

Regardless of whether you're flashing your boobs or hiding your moobs, Glamour & Sparkle have something for everyone this Friday at the Cosmopolitan Hotel.

 

For the girls we have some exciting new items, including our special Valentine's range which is guaranteed to add a little sparkle to your outfit and help ensure that Cupid fires his arrows in your direction.

 

For the guys, well, let's just say we've got the kind of goodies that will make the special lady in your life go all giggly and girly, a feeling that will make them particularly keen to show their gratitude.

 

Drop by and see us on Friday.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/

Earring Extravaganza

There's something classically understated about Johannes Vermeer's masterpiece Girl With A Pearl Earring.

 

Vermeer's subtle strokes and the manner in which he draws attention to the single earring testify to his genius and succeed in making most observers overlook the fact that he couldn't find himself a model with decent hair - seriously, who wears a headscarf when they're having their portrait painted?

 

At Glamour & Sparkle we have no time for such nuances as understatement and subtlety (although ironically enough if you stop by and see us at one of our shows  you'll find a fantastic range of scarves).

 

If you want to blend effortlessly into the lifeless, soulless background of the urban jungle and display all the pizazz of a particularly dull wallflower, then you're in the wrong place.

 

However, if like us you believe that an earring should capture the imagination, radiate in its own spotlight and take away the breath of the crowd, then you will be delighted to know that Glamour & Sparkle are launching their new 2013 range of earrings on January 18.

 

We've got teardrops to make you cry; hearts of glass to make you skip a beat; diamante encrusted hoops that would light up a basketball court and chandelier style designs that would grace any queen's palace.

 

And as a concession to all you ladies out there who think there's a lot to be said for subtlety and understatement, we've even stocked up with of the daintiest and demurest pearls you could possibly imagine.

 

Something for everyone, as they say.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/Clip-On-Earrings

 

New Year, New You

Hello and welcome to 2013!

 

We hope you all had a fantastic Christmas and New Year and are all ready to hit the ground sashaying in your cutest killer heels and most divine dress this January.

 

Whether you've overindulged yourself at Christmas (our own Miss Lixx has threatened to redefine the term curvaceous; she's also threatened to sue the horrible person who evidently sewed the incorrect size label into her new frock), or stuck religiously to your diet and eschewed the fun things in life champagne and chocolate (in which case there's a good chance you shouldn't be here anyway), we have something for you this January.

 

We have a fantastic new collection of rings, bracelets and earrings and have also taken fresh delivery of some of our most popular designs so you're sure to find something that catches your eye.

 

So if you're looking to reinvent yourself with a new image (sadly Miss Lixx's bid to reinvent herself as a size 12 is on hold for the foreseeable future) or to add a touch of elegance and Je ne sais quoi to the status quo, then Glamour & Sparkle has something for you.

 

It's a new year so it's time for a new you - a more sparkly, more glamorous version of the existing you.

 

After all, Apple and Microsoft don't have the monopoly on upgrading and relaunching things, so get out their girls and let the world know you're coming.

 

This promises to be the biggest year in Glamour & Sparkle's history and we can't wait to share our exciting new range with you.

 

As ever we will be at Leeds this Friday in the Cosmopolitan Hotel so please feel free to drop by and see us if you're attending this month's Leeds First Friday event.

 

http://glamourandsparkle.co.uk/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=269