I’ve been lucky enough to work with Gunwharf Quays a number of times recently – and have been fortunate to visit on two different occasions (you can read about my first trip here). This time however, I was returning for a slightly different kind of shopping trip – a Student Lock In. Hosted in the evening and with discounts of up to 25%, the Lock In is targeted at students who love shopping for bargains.
Already full of fantastically discounted outlet stores, the Lock In at Gunwharf was particularly great due to the vast array of brands available – including Ted Baker, Cath Kidston, Kurt Geiger and The Cosmetics Company (who stock discounted MAC, Bobbi Brown, Clinique and Elizabeth Arden). So with Danielle, Hannah and Gemma in tow, we headed to Portsmouth for an evening of pure fashion, beauty and food.
With DJ’s pumping out music and free samples of drinks, food and products being handed out – we didn’t quite know where to start. After a quick dinner stop at Frankie & Benny’s we headed to Ted Baker – where I found my favourite purchases on my last trip. Unfortunately, I didn’t find anything which rivalled last time – however there were some really gorgeous pastel dresses which caught my eye.
Eventually we ended up in my favourite store – The Cosmetics Company, which offered a 10% discount to students on MAC, Bobbi Brown, Smashbox and many more well known beauty brands. If you’re as much of a make-up hoarder as I am (and I say hoarder because I’m never going to use everything – I only have one face) then you’ll understand my excitement for a situation such as this. After 45 minutes, I left with a bottle of MAC Face & Body Foundation (which I absolutely love but it smells a little like acrylic paint) and a pot of Clinique’s Superbalanced Foundation (which gives amazing coverage).
After blowing lots of the budget on make-up, we decided it was about time to scout out some fashion bargains – and headed to Jack Wills. I picked up a gorgeous red short-sleeve jumper which is ideal for this odd mild/yet rainy weather – and a cropped tee from GAP (£6!).
Overall, I had a really fantastic time at the Lock In – all thanks to Gunwharf Quays. I made a number of great purchases – with amazing discounts and my only complaint is that I wish it went on for longer (when you’re in the shopping swing – you can’t get out of it!). A number of the food outlets completely sold out of stock, which I think is telling of it’s popularity and the DJ’s and music on board gave the place a really friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Make sure you watch out for a Student Lock In cropping up near you – you’ll need a valid student ID and a bunch of girlfriends – and lots of stamina. It’s hard work all this shopping!
Have you ever been to a Student Lock In event? Have you visited Gunwharf Quays? What did you think?