Take a peak at these unusual accessories by textile artist Keri Rounding. Each one is handmade from 100% merino wool and is inspired by sea life. Keri uses a mixture of wet and needle felting techniques to create a cute and unique look.

Shop at www.kerirounding.com.

One of the biggest modern day myths is that all women love to shop. Well actually, I don’t. And I don’t think I’m on my own. Some things in particular fill me with dread; shopping for jeans and shopping for bras. A well-fitting bra is the holy grail of women’s clothing - highly sought after but rarely found. But don’t despair, help is at hand.

Vanjo is a sexy, funky, retro lingerie label whose underwear comes in a wide range of sizes and fittings. Their cup sizes range from C to FF, making them a must-have item for curvy women. They are also eco-friendly using, where possible, stock or leftover fabric and trims from cloth manufacturers ’ creating a use for material that would normally be thrown into landfill sites.

In addition, they also offer a range of men’s printed t-shirts and trunks.

Check them out at www.vanjo.co.uk.

If like me you’re feeling the cold at the moment, beat the chill with cheery mittens and scarves by Blue Sky Knits. The beautiful folk motif patterns have been handed down by generations of knitters in rural Maine and Canada. These were knitters who knew how to make the best of cold conditions. The diamond and wave patterns are a blend of influences ’ from Norway, Ireland, Scotland and the Shetland Islands.

The double strands of yarn used to create colour patterns result in an extra layer of warmth. And because the mittens are lightly felted, they are especially durable, soft and cozy.

Stock up now at www.blueskyknits.etsy.com. UK buyers need to convo for shipping costs.

I always think that January is a good time to invest in new pictures and home interiors. Once the Christmas tree and decorations come down everything looks bare and a little bereft.

Angela Hogan or Artangel is a painter, working mainly in acrylics and mixed media. Her work is contemporary, colourful and feminine. She only sells original paintings and so you can be sure that whatever you buy your walls will be truly unique. And a lot less bereft.

Buy online from www.artangel.etsy.com.

Beanies from sweaters, bracelets from belts and bobby pins from vintage buttons. re:made is all about sustainable use and cute handmade goods. I bet you can’t guess what this fun and flirty sundress is made from. No? It’s made from vintage pillowcases. Wear it over jeans or leggings or on its own after the cold snap.

Everything in the re:made shop is completely unique and created from materials with a former life. For more information go to www.iloveremade.com.

I Love my Handbag was set up by a mother and daughter team with a love for bags and travel. Combining their creative talents, they have put together a collection of handmade bags from designers around the world.

Styles and shapes vary and you can choose from day, evening and travel bags. There is a section devoted to bridal bags, which could perhaps double as pretty evening accessories. Fabrics include soft Moroccan leathers, needle cords, embroidered silks and cottons and a rather special 1920s satin brocade .

Take a look at www.ilovemyhandbag.com.

I came across Fashion Central a little while ago via MySpace. They have a whopping 4,500 friends on their list and work hard to promote the work of new and emerging designers. Last November saw the launch of the Fashion Central Online Magazine which has proved to be hugely popular with designers and fashionistas alike.

Each themed, high-colour, high-impact edition is brimming with photo shoots on accessories, clothes and beauty from today’s bright young things and tomorrow’s designers du jour. Check it out at www.fashioncentralmagazine.com.

NOTE: Fashion Central is now Cause a Scene: www.causeascenemagazine.com.

After a lazy, slovenly Christmas, this morning’s alarm call was a real shock to the system. And what a cold, dark and windy morning. But never mind, these snugly, stylish hats are sure to lift your spirits and warm your cockles. Hand knitted by Raye Broxap Crafts and modelled by the glamorous Gloria, each jaunty topper is made from luxury wools and yarns with pretty buckle and button embellishments. Mix and match with a funky, quirky handbag.

Go to www.rayebroxapcrafts.co.uk.