Hyper Japan

Sticking with our Japanese theme from yesterday’s blog post, we thought it would be appropriate to feature the UK’s biggest celebration of Japanese culture and cuisine, HYPER JAPAN 2012 Christmas . From 23^rd - 25^th November at Earls Court, this huge event will contain numerous aspects of Japanese tradition and culture to explore. We at The Amazing Blog think this would be the perfect event to change up the pace of your traditional weekend activities; go enjoy the latest popular Japanese trends, catch some unique performances, and even taste some delightful cuisine. HYPER JAPAN is also a great place to pick up some exciting and unusual Christmas gifts too!

The event includes many exhibitors there to present traditional Japanese cuisine, teach workshops such as learning how to make your own sushi, and even perform for you. You can immerse yourself in the Japanese culture first hand depending on where your interests lie. They have numerous cultural activities such as martial arts, kimono making, and even calligraphy- all popular traditions in the Japanese culture. If that doesn’t spark your interest, you can hit up the HYPER JAPAN Christmas Market. There is a large selection of Christmas gift ideas that your family and friends can enjoy all year round. From bargain kawaii accessories to toys and Japanese sweets.

There will also be artwork, crafts, and tableware pieces available for purchase for the more discerning customer. No matter who you are shopping for, you're sure to find something special for them at the HYPER JAPAN Christmas Market. With so much to do and see, make sure you take some time to appreciate and try some Japanese Cuisine. Eat-Japan will have some phenomenal opportunities for customers. From the Sake Experience where you can try different types of Sake and even vote on your favourite one, to a Tea Bar and Sushi Workshop, there is something to keep everyone’s taste buds wanting more! Youcan not only sample some of this amazing food, but there will also be stalls set up where you can purchase Japanese drinks, candy, snacks and more.

A general entry ticket purchased online costs £12. More information on event times and ticket prices can be found on their website here. We at The Amazing Blog cannot wait to head to HYPER JAPAN 2012 Christmas event this weekend and hope you’ll find time in your schedule to stop by too!

Topshop "Reclaim To Wear"

I think it's pretty safe to say that most of us want to do our bit for the environment. Whether it's using recycled paper in your printer, making sure to separate your rubbish or using a bag-for-life on your food shop, we're all pretty conscious of being good to our planet. So in the spirit of recycling and a love of fashion, Topshop has teamed up with Reclaim To Wear to create an "upcycled" collection that launches today.

The whole collection is produced from discarded materials, such as surplus stock and production off-cuts.The collection consists of 8 pieces, and includes blouses, dresses, sweatshirts, shorts and jeans. Even if you're not a regular shopper at Topshop you'll be sure to find one of these quirky pieces appealing. The collection is one of many collaborations which hope to increase sustainability in the fashion industry, and there are sure to be more brands following suit.

Reclaim to Wear was the brainchild of Orsola De Castro and Fillippo Ricci, who started the eco-fashion label From Somewhere. They saw textile waste as a big problem, and since 1997 they have been teaming up with designers and retailers to create collections using these discarded materials. Their initiative is helping reduce mainstream wastage by working alongside it.

I normally don't need a reason to shop, but if you do, helping the environment is as good as any! The range launches today and is available in store and on Topshop's website.

My Shopping Spy

When you're busy working long days at the office it can be hard to find spare time to go shopping; despite being something of a fashion-addict, shopping can be a tiresome sport and certainly not the most relaxing of ways to spend a Saturday afternoon. And if, like The Amazing Blog gang, you're a big shopper check out My Shopping Spy, an easy to use website where you can find out all about London’s coolest shops.

This free online directory covers different tools like the Spy Search, where you can find loads of shops that agree with your style, location and budget. You can even build your own shopping area with My Spy member’s tool, adding a list of your favourite shops in your profile and planning your personal shopping trips around the city. And the Spy Alert not only updates you with the latest shows and shop openings in London but with Spy News, you can stay one step ahead of the pack as they supply you with all the hottest fashion-related news, including info about London based designers.

My Shopping Spy is tailor made and keeps its users up-to-date with all things fashion. You'll also be able to access the seasonal sales and special offers and vouchers for different shops in London.

Created by Editor and Founder Kristina von Oertzen, who herself is passionate about shopping guides, this hand-selected directory with handy maps and shop reviews is the perfect option for those who want to enjoy the very best of London's shopping.

Made By Hands Of Britain

Much has been made, in recent years, of the benefits of shopping local. Not only are you supporting home grown trade, but generally you’ll find products are higher in quality and as they’re not mass produced, purchases are far more unique, and thus perfect for treating either yourself or a loved one to something extra-special.

If however, you don’t have the time (or indeed the inclination) to spend your Saturday mornings trawling round craft fairs, or seeking out a nearby independent boutique, then Made By Hands Of Britain is the perfect solution. Founded by Gillian Montegrande just over a year ago, this beautiful website has on offer some of the finest items of British craftsmanship available exclusively online. Inspired by a love and appreciation of local skill and artistry, Gillian spotted a niche in the market that was yet to be filled. And so saw the birth of Made By Hands Of Britain which showcases over 190 of Britain’s finest craftsmen, all under one virtual roof. With an array of unique and inspiring items from confectionary to handwoven scarves and 18ct gold jewellery, there’s something to suit everyone, whatever your style or budget.

And while buying handmade gifts from this fabulous website supports local artisan communities, it also means you will be investing in pieces that will endure the test of time, unlike much of what is available on our high streets. One’s carbon footprint is drastically reduced and the seller’s eco-credentials are increasingly higher than large chains, due largely to the way in which they craft their items – by hand rather than by machine.

I particularly liked the Gift part of the website, which had a huge spectrum of offerings available. With sellers including Alexandra Abraham: Artist and Jewellery Designer, who sources her materials from the Thames Foreshore and forgotten rubbish tips, Lucy Alexandra Batt – whose handmade glass pieces are intricately carved and embellished with intimate floral or abstract patterns and Geoffrey Fisher – a Buckinghamshire-based designer who works exclusively in wood, there are some truly fabulous ideas for anyone who needs help with present buying.

So if, like us at The Amazing Blog, you're sick of Britain's copycat high streets, and want to support local trade, check out Made By Hands Of Britain and indulge in the very best of British craftmanship.