La Mode and other Things: It's an Animal World

Something is afoot in fashion. Or perhaps I should say apaw, or ahoof, because it seems the animal kingdom has conquered the world of fashion. Be it jewellery or t-shirts, your favourite animals are the only things to be wearing right now. And no, I'm not talking about fur... (no animals were harmed in the making of this trend) this is about celebrating our furry friends, not skinning them.

Instead, opt for animal imagery on everything from rings to bracelets. The cuter and kitscher the better. One of my favourite bracelets is this sparkly panda from Butler & Wilson. Its quirkiness makes me smile, and when we go out he always gets a compliment. Only problem is I love him so much that I'm tempted to buy him some friends for company, and have a whole army of animals jangling up my arm. Nothing like embracing a trend...

Alex Monroe is to thank for this animal obsession... when he puts tiny creatures on his necklaces you know it won't be long before the highstreet picks up on it and a trend is born. I love the highstreet versions, and they are certainly more purse-friendly, but if there is still nothing quite like the delicate gold of an Alex Monroe necklace.

Alex Monroe Hummingbird Necklace, £120

This charming owl necklace reminds me of one of my favourite childhood books, "I want my mummy" which was about baby owls. This necklace is just as cute.

Alex Monroe Owl Necklace, £174

My favourite has to be this gold bumblebee that is as sweet as honey.

Alex Monroe Bumblebee Necklace, from £135

I suppose a girl can dream, but at least there are plenty of affordable options on the highstreet until that Alex Monroe necklace finds its way into my life... :)

Flutterby Butterfly... Butterfly studs £9 Miss Selfridge

Swallow earrings £3.50 Miss Selfridge

Owl studs £3.50 Miss Selfridge

Make a buzz... Bee necklace £8 This Charming Girl

Whale necklace £9 This Charming Girl

Stag necklace £8 This Charming Girl

Say Grrrrr... Bear necklace £7.50 This Charming Girl

Butterfly pendant £3 Miss Selfridge

Butterfly ring £6 Topshop

Bug ring £8 Topshop

Eagle ring £10 Topshop

Stag ring £12.50 Topshop

Bear ring £10 Topshop

Glittery duck ring £20 Topshop

This bunny ring has to be my favourite. Cute? Yes. Kitsch? Yes. Bunny? - YES YES YES!

Bunny ring £4 Accessorize

Owl ring £20 Accessorize

It's magic... Bunny in a hat ring £7 Accessorize

As delicate and demure as Alex Monroe's necklaces are, Butler & Wilson is wacky. With colourful jewels to make your mouth water and enough sparkle to make the crown jewels look dull, this is jewellery to make a statement. And a fabulously fun one at that.