Gucci
Madewell
Mondaine
Star Mela
Tory Burch
The Boho Basics
Monday, 30 May 2016
I've really "worked" at my summer wardrobe this year, as silly as that sounds to say. I always find myself disappearing into high street stores in May and June, emerging with £50 worth of tops and tees that get worn once and are shoved into a bag in the spare room thrown away only months later. This time around I've picked out a few key pieces I know I'll wear to death, starting with this off the shoulder top from Madewell.
outfit details at the base of this post
For those who don't already know of Madewell, it's J Crew's slightly hipper little sister. If you're a bit like me and don't like to stray too far from the norm - but want to try out the boho look - make this brand your new go-to. They make gorgeous quality boho pieces as well as having strong denim collections here and accessories here. They're yet to bring a store to the UK, but you can ship a very good edit of the collection at Net A Porter here.
outfit details at the base of this post
Other favourites from their collections this year... where to start?! This black paisley top is gorgeous, imagine it with a tan and some ripped up denim shorts and black sandals? I have this jumpsuit and think it's so, so flattering (and you can wear a bra with it, despite the peep hole), I'll get it up on the blog as soon as poss. These shorts are lush, paired with white tees and vests. Finally make this stripe shirt and this checked one your ultimate weekend basics... (disable your ad blocker to view the carousel below)
L:R
outfit details at the base of this post
My accessories are great examples to show you don't need to buy loads to get the boho-look all summer. My shoes are from Tory Burch via The Outnet (a great way to shop on a budget, without worrying a lot of polyester/plastic cr*p will arrive), have a look at their full offering here. I'm a little bit obsessed with these, and have worn them constantly ever since getting hold of them - the blue really pops out, they're super comfortable and were half price.
outfit details at the base of this post
The bag is from a brand called Star Mela that seems to be cropping up all over the place - they're really good for boho stuff that doesn't break, or break the bank. I bought it from Anthropologie last year, and have found similars on ASOS here and them again here.
The sunglasses are from Gucci, and it's actual love. I got them before the whole phenomenon kicked off and was a bit worried about wearing them as the brand wasn't exactly cool. Now, they're the things all my friends are trying to steal from me. You can get them in khaki-glass here, but the reds are pretty much sold out - or Shopbop have these for half price. The next closest thing I've found are these for £12 from ASOS, in case the green won't do.
Outfit details
sandals, Tory Burch via The Outnet / similar here (£29!!!)
bracelets, astley clarke / rings, Crux London
Photos taken using an Olympus PEN EP-L7 from John Lewis here.
Photos taken using an Olympus PEN EP-L7 from John Lewis here.
ASOS
boohoo
Nasty Gal
netaporter
The OutNet
Zimmermann
The Jumpsuit of Dreams
Sunday, 29 May 2016
I appreciate the title is punchy, but I can't explain to you how much I loved wearing this jumpsuit. Zimmermann is a brand I always keep my eye on, ever since the Aussie sisters launched their first swimwear collection many moons ago. There is something Australian designers get that nobody else does; combining strong lines with that feminity most girls really quite like, even if you are a tom boy at heart. It took me all of two seconds to pick this out as a favourite for my Marrakech visit (find it here, and rejoice in your purchase).
outfit credits at the base of this post
First things first; to explain where I am. These photos were taken on my own rooftop of my own riad at the Royal Mansour. Privacy is of upmost importance at the hotel and therefore every guest has their own terrace, pool, shower and sun deck at the top of their riad. It was immense, the evening sun was perfect to take a few snaps.
As already mentioned, I was pretty happy to prance around and have my picture taken when wearing this. This is me in my true holiday style; hair thrown up (looking a lot better thanks to a recent trim and colour at Sassoon Salons), absolutely no make up, no shoes. My feet had just been treated to the best pedicure I'd ever had in my entire life (and being a blogger, I'm fortunate to have had a few) at the spa at the hotel - so good they don't put nail varnish on your toes! Three weeks on they are still shining!
The detailing of this jumpsuit really makes it for me. The crochet detail down the front and alongside the floral embroidery makes it feel so, so special. I totally understand not every one has this money to spend on clothing so have added some alternatives to the base of this post. It's more expensive than I'd usually consider spending too, and I'm sure my hoard of ASOS jumpsuits are getting nervous now that I've seen the quality/price jump. The same print comes in a bikini top here and bottoms here; they're in my basket on my account already...
Outfit details
Jumpsuit, Zimmermann / similar here (never in a million years thought I'd suggest this site, but this is awesome) / similar here (same again) / similar here
Shop Zimmermann at Net A Porter here, or previous collection for reduced prices at The OutNet here. Created in collaboration with Net A Porter, all words my own.
Photos taken using an Olympus PEN EP-L7 from John Lewis here.
outfit credits at the base of this post
First things first; to explain where I am. These photos were taken on my own rooftop of my own riad at the Royal Mansour. Privacy is of upmost importance at the hotel and therefore every guest has their own terrace, pool, shower and sun deck at the top of their riad. It was immense, the evening sun was perfect to take a few snaps.
outfit credits at the base of this post
As already mentioned, I was pretty happy to prance around and have my picture taken when wearing this. This is me in my true holiday style; hair thrown up (looking a lot better thanks to a recent trim and colour at Sassoon Salons), absolutely no make up, no shoes. My feet had just been treated to the best pedicure I'd ever had in my entire life (and being a blogger, I'm fortunate to have had a few) at the spa at the hotel - so good they don't put nail varnish on your toes! Three weeks on they are still shining!
outfit credits at the base of this post
The detailing of this jumpsuit really makes it for me. The crochet detail down the front and alongside the floral embroidery makes it feel so, so special. I totally understand not every one has this money to spend on clothing so have added some alternatives to the base of this post. It's more expensive than I'd usually consider spending too, and I'm sure my hoard of ASOS jumpsuits are getting nervous now that I've seen the quality/price jump. The same print comes in a bikini top here and bottoms here; they're in my basket on my account already...
Outfit details
Jumpsuit, Zimmermann / similar here (never in a million years thought I'd suggest this site, but this is awesome) / similar here (same again) / similar here
Shop Zimmermann at Net A Porter here, or previous collection for reduced prices at The OutNet here. Created in collaboration with Net A Porter, all words my own.
Photos taken using an Olympus PEN EP-L7 from John Lewis here.
J Crew
L.K.Bennett
Mango
Needle and Thread
Reiss
Self Portrait
Sophie Hulme
Topshop
Warehouse
One of our friends is having an English garden party on the river before their wedding abroad, so I thought I'd buy something for that and the two weddings (two different groups of friends, I hold the camera, no one will ever know) I have in the UK. I wanted something I'd feel really good in, would work not matter the weather and was pastel coloured without looking cheap (which I find is a genuine problem with pale coloured clothes). Mango needs a serious mention as their efforts are outstanding; this nude mini is great, as is this midi floral print and you could consider getting married in this!
dresses: long sleeved lace, the outnet / blue and white dress, topshop / taupe lace mini dress, alice and olivia / multicolour dress, L.K.Bennett / nude mini lace dress, mango
accessories: clutch bag, Reiss / light pink heels, L.K.Bennett / pink clutch, Sophie Hulme
Having searched high and low I've gone for this L.K.Bennett dress. It's very bright (the pinks and light blues come out a little more than the pictures show) but the fit is super flattering for me - and will hide a lot of wedding-cake-binging sessions. It's more than I would usually spend on a dress, but the detailing is beautiful and I know I'll get several wears from it. Shoe wise, I'll no doubt wear my ever-faithful Jimmy Choo Agnes' or LK Bennett Florets as they are the only heels I can wear all day...
Needle and Thread
I wanted to highlight one particular brand because if you don't know about it you really, really should. Meet Needle and Thread. When I get married, whatever decade in the future that may be in, I'm demanding that every single girl who attends wears one of these, I'm completely obsessed. They're really well known in the fash-pack down here in London but still quite new on the scene across the country - so be one of the first and get one. I have a navy midi dress from them (very similar to this) and I wear it every time I get a chance...
Stocked on Net A Porter here, their maxi dresses are perfect for everything wedding from bridal to minion in the back row. This one is £350 and to be honest I'd believe someone if they told me it had another zero on the end (compare it to this £1000 Valentino and you get my drift). My favourites are above, and I really think you'll spot me in one of them for one of the Italian evening events. Ooh and this skirt is on the wish list, with exclamation marks and underlining... Seriously, it wouldn't surprise me if they jack up their prices soon so get one whilst they're still reasonable!
Italian Wedding Outfits
I have visions of us all walking up to the church looking like a Dolce and Gabbana advert, for both weddings (craving this dress, for that exact purpose). To me, Italian weddings mean deeper, richer colours and a little more "oomph." I'm thinking deep colours; reds, navys etc - and really enjoyed having a look.
TGIPD The Wedding Guest Edition
Friday, 27 May 2016
So it's pay day and it's a bank holiday weekend - winner! Can't believe how quickly the year is going - or how many weddings we've got this year. It's really easy to get carried away in the summer months, especially when you have outfits to plan for. I've got two friends' weddings in Italy and a spatter of ones in the UK between now and September. I've been on the look out for outfits that are "special" enough but won't break the bank - or are worthy investments. I'm not a natural "dress up" girl so I find this kind of stuff really challenging. So here is my stab at it... This is going to be a long post so please pop the kettle on and settle in...
English Garden Party Reception
needle and thread SS16, see below
English Garden Party Reception
One of our friends is having an English garden party on the river before their wedding abroad, so I thought I'd buy something for that and the two weddings (two different groups of friends, I hold the camera, no one will ever know) I have in the UK. I wanted something I'd feel really good in, would work not matter the weather and was pastel coloured without looking cheap (which I find is a genuine problem with pale coloured clothes). Mango needs a serious mention as their efforts are outstanding; this nude mini is great, as is this midi floral print and you could consider getting married in this!
dresses: long sleeved lace, the outnet / blue and white dress, topshop / taupe lace mini dress, alice and olivia / multicolour dress, L.K.Bennett / nude mini lace dress, mango
accessories: clutch bag, Reiss / light pink heels, L.K.Bennett / pink clutch, Sophie Hulme
Having searched high and low I've gone for this L.K.Bennett dress. It's very bright (the pinks and light blues come out a little more than the pictures show) but the fit is super flattering for me - and will hide a lot of wedding-cake-binging sessions. It's more than I would usually spend on a dress, but the detailing is beautiful and I know I'll get several wears from it. Shoe wise, I'll no doubt wear my ever-faithful Jimmy Choo Agnes' or LK Bennett Florets as they are the only heels I can wear all day...
Needle and Thread
I wanted to highlight one particular brand because if you don't know about it you really, really should. Meet Needle and Thread. When I get married, whatever decade in the future that may be in, I'm demanding that every single girl who attends wears one of these, I'm completely obsessed. They're really well known in the fash-pack down here in London but still quite new on the scene across the country - so be one of the first and get one. I have a navy midi dress from them (very similar to this) and I wear it every time I get a chance...
yellow maxi dress / cream mini dress / cream mini skirt / cream maxi dress / navy maxi dress / light blue maxi dress
Stocked on Net A Porter here, their maxi dresses are perfect for everything wedding from bridal to minion in the back row. This one is £350 and to be honest I'd believe someone if they told me it had another zero on the end (compare it to this £1000 Valentino and you get my drift). My favourites are above, and I really think you'll spot me in one of them for one of the Italian evening events. Ooh and this skirt is on the wish list, with exclamation marks and underlining... Seriously, it wouldn't surprise me if they jack up their prices soon so get one whilst they're still reasonable!
Italian Wedding Outfits
I have visions of us all walking up to the church looking like a Dolce and Gabbana advert, for both weddings (craving this dress, for that exact purpose). To me, Italian weddings mean deeper, richer colours and a little more "oomph." I'm thinking deep colours; reds, navys etc - and really enjoyed having a look.
dresses: red lace dress, Warehouse / navy maxi dress, Reiss / black and red lace, the outnet / navy lace maxi, Topshop / blue dress, Reiss
accessories: red lace ups, L.K.Bennett / earrings, Astley Clarke / cross body, J Crew
Self Portrait dresses are all the rage, but having bought one and sent it back due to the quality I'm not prepared to try them again. I found this red dress from Warehouse which is very similar, and not far off is this blue lace one dress from Reiss. The OutNet is a really good place to look; this dress is exactly what I need. I really love the vibrant blue of this dress too. Phew, am exhausted! Hope this post was useful for you too - it's helped me whittle it down to a couple but if you have any finds let me know!
accessories: red lace ups, L.K.Bennett / earrings, Astley Clarke / cross body, J Crew
Self Portrait dresses are all the rage, but having bought one and sent it back due to the quality I'm not prepared to try them again. I found this red dress from Warehouse which is very similar, and not far off is this blue lace one dress from Reiss. The OutNet is a really good place to look; this dress is exactly what I need. I really love the vibrant blue of this dress too. Phew, am exhausted! Hope this post was useful for you too - it's helped me whittle it down to a couple but if you have any finds let me know!
Astley Clarke
Chloe
Halcyon Days
Mango
MiH Jeans
Net A Porter
Rag and Bone
Topshop
Just Add Sole
Tuesday, 24 May 2016
outfit credits at the base of this post
I don't need to tell you anymore about my Morocco trip, at risk of being unfollowed and/or blocked on the internets (but it was so awesome, just so awesome). However, one of the reasons for the trip hasn't been fully explained. When we were asked by Net A Porter to show our readers our favourite summer wardrobe pieces we thought we'd tie it all in together and shoot it whilst away... Our first job (isn't it ridiculous that this is a work task) was to pick out a pair of shoes that we thought could carry us through the season...
outfit credits at the base of this post
I picked out these Chloe heels, I'd been after them for ages and when this opportunity came up I doubt the girls at Net had ever been emailed back in a quicker time! For me, they really do with everything. They're the reverse-neutral; they have so many colours in them you can wear them with anything. I can also report that they really are incredibly comfortable. I completely understand that they're a high price point but it's good to treat yourself once in a while, no? If you really can't stretch that far, fear not, Topshop have made some dead ringer heels here and flats here.
outfit credits at the base of this post
What was really important to me in this post was to show readers that Net A Porter isn't all £5000 dresses (although it is fun to have a look at these, do so here). They do have some really good price-conscious options too. I get a lot of my basics from them, by that I mean pieces I pay a little more than high street for but for good reason as I'm going to live in them for seasons to come. This MiH Jeans skirt is the perfect example. As long as my aging knees will let me, I'll be wearing this with everything from flowing printed shirts to little vests and tees..
outfit credits at the base of this post
The vest is gorgeously soft and from Rag and Bone. Very much thought of as the epitome of urban New York, its often forgotten that the force behind this brand are British expats. I count them as one of the best for buying my staple "must haves." This vest's chunky knit is such a cool finishing touch, and I love it. I've worn it constantly since getting my mitts on it. Find it here.
outfit credits at the base of this post
I wore my failsafe jewellery pieces; my Astley Clarke bracelets never come off! I have a couple of new additions though; my turquoise moon charm bracelet might just be my new favourite thing ever. Other bangles include a simple string with a charm my parents bought me in Spain, and my Halcyon Days gold cuff... Definitely helps me get the whole "boho" vibe going... My pinky finger has a new friend too, and it's very special. My boyfriend and I made it! We went to The Workbench London a few months ago and spent an evening creating our design. It was his Christmas present to me, and a very good one at that...
Outfit details
Jewellery: beaded bracelets, Astley Clarke / cuffs, Halcyon Days
Nails: white heat, Ciate London
beauty
Charlotte Tilbury
Clarins
Estee Lauder
John Lewis
Origins
REN skincare
May Beauty Buys
Sunday, 22 May 2016
How we've already come to May's beauty edit I don't know - it feels like I only just finished April's one! This is the month that I really start notching up my skincare regime and investing in some decent products. The minute the sun comes out my skin seems to age without some serious help. It quickly goes dry, yet also really gets oily with the muggy weather. All in all, time to do a proper sort out and make sure I have the right bits...
This month's post is a little bit different as John Lewis asked me to take a look at their own summer beauty edit (Super Nature), here. They've focussed on products that use natural ingredients, which is a must for me. Whenever I see a website's round up of bits I always expect that half of them will be what I'd go for, but their selection was completely spot on (pun not intended). They have all my hero brands for a thorough detox on my skin (REN skincare, Charlotte Tilbury and Origins) as well as new things I was dying to try... I decided to only use things I'd never used before, and was sat like a kid by the fireplace at Christmas waiting for them to all arrive.
full product details below, or view the only edit here
This month's post is a little bit different as John Lewis asked me to take a look at their own summer beauty edit (Super Nature), here. They've focussed on products that use natural ingredients, which is a must for me. Whenever I see a website's round up of bits I always expect that half of them will be what I'd go for, but their selection was completely spot on (pun not intended). They have all my hero brands for a thorough detox on my skin (REN skincare, Charlotte Tilbury and Origins) as well as new things I was dying to try... I decided to only use things I'd never used before, and was sat like a kid by the fireplace at Christmas waiting for them to all arrive.
I'll try and do this in a sensible order; brand by brand. Starting with Clarins. I'd stumbled upon their trio of "boosters" and was really keen to give one a go. They're created to give you some help when you need it. I selected Repair as it's good for sunburnt or damaged skin, and added it to my usual moisturiser on Wednesday as directed. It's now Sunday evening and I can already feel a difference on my (ridiculously) sunburnt nose. It also reduced the redness instantaneously... Next from them was their Instant Beauty Shot which is perfect to have in your handbag for those days when you have to wake up and go to work but your face doesn't want to. It really does "tighten and brighten" as suggested... (especially when matched with the Clinique All About Eyes which took my puffy, dark lids and reformed them into their former teenage-selves in one hit....
On that subject; Clinique. I appreciate this may be a little bit nuts to some of you given how long I've been blogging about beauty but I've never tried any of their stuff before. I know. The first one was an excellent benchmark as the idea of spending money on a soap baffled me. However, as someone who really hates the horrid tightness you get after washing your face with standard bar, I was a bit stunned by the difference. Goodbye supermarket-branded cr*p - I'm using this forever and ever, I don't know what's in it but it left my face feeling actually clean. I'd apply the same level of "wow" to the Dramatically Different Moisturiser. My skin turns tight and dusty very quickly, and coming back from my sunny weekend left it tired the fine lines appeared with a vengeance. This stuff sent them packing almost straight away... And lastly I'm yet to try the Overnight Mask but will do this evening so check out my Instagram to see how it goes...
Estee Lauder products make me really happy, nostalgia alone. It's what both my grandmothers used and the smell of them reminds me of sitting patiently on their beds waiting for story time. I'd never tried them myself though, as I'd always thought they were more "generalist" than for specific problems. As heads up for anyone younger; when you turn 30 sh*t gets real, and it all shows on your face. I woke up on my 30th birthday to presents, cards... and load of fine lines. I really have to work at things, and did not think Lauder was the brand to do it with. You can't see, but as you read this I'm eating my hat. The first thing I tested was the Advanced Night Repair, I tried it after a few glasses of wine (which always shows the next day). I woke up and looked like I'd been on a health retreat. Everything was tight and firm, unheard of. BUY IT HERE. The same impact happened with the Firm And Fill Eye Duo; my eyes looked 10 years old. I'm trying out the Resilience Lift this week so will let you know how I get on, but given everything else I'm expecting big things...
Last but not least, REN. I snuck in one of my all time favourites, the 1 Minute Facial cream. I keep mine in my handbag and use it whenever I'm away as a bit of a treat. If I know I have something coming up when I can't risk a break out, this is my failsafe. Just buy it, here. A new product for me was the Evercalm Moisturiser. I was fairly stacked with things to try so I gave this to the boy to test and I can tell you wholeheartedly his skin looked better after a few days use. He commutes on the underground so often gets congestion in his pores (he'll read this and not have a clue what I'm on about) and they looked significantly tighter and cleaner whilst using this morning and night...
I hope this list helps you, this time of year is so tough on skin. For full details on all of the products in the John Lewis edit, click here.
Full review list:
Clarins: Instant Beauty Shot / Repair Serum
Clinique: All About Eyes / Soap / Dramatically Different Moisturiser / Overnight Mask
Estee Lauder: Advanced Night Repair / Firm And Fill Eye Duo / Resilience Lift
REN: Evercalm Moisturiser / 1 Minute Facial
This post was sponsored by John Lewis, all words my own.
On that subject; Clinique. I appreciate this may be a little bit nuts to some of you given how long I've been blogging about beauty but I've never tried any of their stuff before. I know. The first one was an excellent benchmark as the idea of spending money on a soap baffled me. However, as someone who really hates the horrid tightness you get after washing your face with standard bar, I was a bit stunned by the difference. Goodbye supermarket-branded cr*p - I'm using this forever and ever, I don't know what's in it but it left my face feeling actually clean. I'd apply the same level of "wow" to the Dramatically Different Moisturiser. My skin turns tight and dusty very quickly, and coming back from my sunny weekend left it tired the fine lines appeared with a vengeance. This stuff sent them packing almost straight away... And lastly I'm yet to try the Overnight Mask but will do this evening so check out my Instagram to see how it goes...
Estee Lauder products make me really happy, nostalgia alone. It's what both my grandmothers used and the smell of them reminds me of sitting patiently on their beds waiting for story time. I'd never tried them myself though, as I'd always thought they were more "generalist" than for specific problems. As heads up for anyone younger; when you turn 30 sh*t gets real, and it all shows on your face. I woke up on my 30th birthday to presents, cards... and load of fine lines. I really have to work at things, and did not think Lauder was the brand to do it with. You can't see, but as you read this I'm eating my hat. The first thing I tested was the Advanced Night Repair, I tried it after a few glasses of wine (which always shows the next day). I woke up and looked like I'd been on a health retreat. Everything was tight and firm, unheard of. BUY IT HERE. The same impact happened with the Firm And Fill Eye Duo; my eyes looked 10 years old. I'm trying out the Resilience Lift this week so will let you know how I get on, but given everything else I'm expecting big things...
Last but not least, REN. I snuck in one of my all time favourites, the 1 Minute Facial cream. I keep mine in my handbag and use it whenever I'm away as a bit of a treat. If I know I have something coming up when I can't risk a break out, this is my failsafe. Just buy it, here. A new product for me was the Evercalm Moisturiser. I was fairly stacked with things to try so I gave this to the boy to test and I can tell you wholeheartedly his skin looked better after a few days use. He commutes on the underground so often gets congestion in his pores (he'll read this and not have a clue what I'm on about) and they looked significantly tighter and cleaner whilst using this morning and night...
I hope this list helps you, this time of year is so tough on skin. For full details on all of the products in the John Lewis edit, click here.
Full review list:
Clarins: Instant Beauty Shot / Repair Serum
Clinique: All About Eyes / Soap / Dramatically Different Moisturiser / Overnight Mask
Estee Lauder: Advanced Night Repair / Firm And Fill Eye Duo / Resilience Lift
REN: Evercalm Moisturiser / 1 Minute Facial
This post was sponsored by John Lewis, all words my own.
Astley Clarke
Iris and Ink
Jimmy Choo
Monica Vinader
Urban Outfitters
Outfit details
white top, Iris and Ink / shorts, similar here / espadrilles, Havaianas / sunglasses, Jimmy Choo / jewellery, Astley Clarke / ring, Monica Vinader
Weekend Mornings In Marrakech
Friday, 20 May 2016
outfit details at the base of this post
Those of you who follow any of us on Instagram will already know that last weekend Emma, Lindsey and I went on a 2 night break to Morocco. Just us girls, and it was bliss (find the content here should you wish). We were hosted at the Royal Mansour, which we expected to be a little bit wonderful given that the King himself helped to build it, but I don't think we were quite prepared for quite how incredible our riads (yep, we had one each) were going to be...
outfit details at the base of this post
These snaps were taken on our first morning, from my very own rooftop balcony complete with plunge pool. Privacy is at the heart of the hotel, so the idea is that guests can enjoy all the benefits of a luxury hotel stay whilst remaining in their own "home." One thing I really love to when I'm away is have breakfast outside, so I rallied the girls to mine and got on with ordering breakfast.
The breakfast menu has it's own leather bound cover to give you an idea, and when the food arrived it didn't disappoint. Fresh pastries, smoked salmon and granola = the perfect start to a packed day of sight seeing and shooting - we all have some really super outfits to share with you as part of a collaboration to show you our holiday wardrobe, so stay tuned!
outfit details at the base of this post
My holiday style is very relaxed; I don't like to be wearing anything tight fitting if we're walking around in the heat! I found this top from Iris and Ink a couple of weeks ago and absolutely love it. It's comfortable (softest cotton) and I love the detailing - it looks like it's a lot more expensive than it is, which is always a win... My shorts are years old from Bloomingdales in New York, I have no idea what brand they are but if you're after similars Urban Outfitters here is always a good start. And, I've had lots of you asking about my espadrilles. They're actually from Havainas (so they have a rubber sole) and are possibly the most genius summer shoe I've ever come across, find them here.
After filling my boots with breakfast and caffeine, I was set for the day (as the below shot shows...). It really was the perfect start to the perfect girls' weekend. I've got plenty more outfit shots and tips of where to go in Marrakech to come in the coming weeks, it really was too good to pop into one solitary outfit post.
Outfit details
white top, Iris and Ink / shorts, similar here / espadrilles, Havaianas / sunglasses, Jimmy Choo / jewellery, Astley Clarke / ring, Monica Vinader
Flights to Marrakesh start from £70 return (ours did!) here. For more information and booking details for the Royal Mansour, visit here.
ASOS
Iris and Ink
Marc by Marc Jacobs
Topshop
Bamford Spa at Daylesford
Tuesday, 17 May 2016
Not sure about you but the weeks seem to be running away with me. The rest of May is so busy, and then we move into our new home the day I get back from Sri Lanka (and the boy conveniently has two stag dos back to back when we move in, so I'm going to do all lots of the sorting). When Bamford asked if Lindsey and I would like to come down for a day of rest and relaxation it couldn't have come at a better time... We replied to their email embarrassingly quickly...
sunglasses, Marc by Marc Jacobs / off the shoulder top, Iris and Ink / jeans, Topshop / bangles, all Astley Clarke / bag, ASOS / shoes, ASOS
I'd been to Daylesford before for a cooking course and a lunch but had never stepped into Bamford's part of the farm. Having visited their spas elsewhere (they are at Limewood and Claridges, amongst others) I knew I was in for a treat, but the surroundings really are something quite special. A complete haven in comparison to London, and we were super lucky with the weather...
sunglasses, Marc by Marc Jacobs / off the shoulder top, Iris and Ink / jeans, Topshop / bangles, all Astley Clarke / bag, ASOS / shoes, ASOS
I had a body exfoliation treatment for an hour in one of the treatment rooms, so relaxing I fell asleep! It really woke up my skin after my trip away, I was worried it would rub off my tan but if anything it did the exact opposite - the next day my colour had gone much deeper and looked a lot healthier. I almost floated back to the dining room to join everyone, I was that relaxed...
sunglasses, Marc by Marc Jacobs / off the shoulder top, Iris and Ink / jeans, Topshop / bangles, all Astley Clarke / bag, ASOS / shoes, ASOS
Lunch was exactly the kind of food you need on a healthy detox day; bone broth, smoked salmon platters and big bowls of green salads. I ate an embarrassing amount, so much so we had to delay our yoga class in order for me to digest it... Oops. And what a yoga class it was, Bamford's in house expert taught us how to unwind and relax - I felt like I was in a perfect state of "worked out" and "relaxed" afterwards...
Before heading back on the train I managed to bribe Linds to take some pictures; I wore my new top from Iris and Ink here. I'd been dying for this for ages so was delighted when it came available, it's so comfortable and good for those days when you don't really know how dress down/up you need to be. stays off the shoulder too, none of that faffing around with your neckline all day like others cause you to do... I paired it with my staple Topshop mom jeans here (seriously, will anyone make any I prefer? I think not) and mint accessories from ASOS. The shoes are super comfortable (here) and I love the little beaded bag (here) - perfect for my travels!
Thank you Bamford Spa and Angel Publicity for hosting us, we have a wonderful time!
Four Seasons
Karen Millen
L.K.Bennett
Rayban
Up On The Roof
Friday, 13 May 2016
dress, Karen Millen (available as a top here and skirt here) / shoes, LK Bennett
Last week we decided to escape and visit Dubai (as anyone who follows my Instagram here will already know, sorry) and after a day relaxing by the pool at Four Seasons DIFC we went up to their rooftop bar for drinks before meeting some friends. Dubai is a lot more "dressy" than London, so I used it as an excuse to wear a dress I'd been saving for wedding season for the occasion.
dress, Karen Millen (available as a top here and skirt here) / shoes, LK Bennett
Before I bang on about how much I love this dress, I really must mention the bar. The hotel has only just opened so it's a bit of a hidden gem, if anyone lives in Dubai I really recommend paying it a visit. We were there on Friday night and it was nicely busy; not too packed but full enough to give it credit that it's becoming a place to be. Details here. I had my first Aperol of the year (I now benchmark the start of summer with this occasion) and happily paraded around the terrace in my Dress Of Dreams.
dress, Karen Millen (available as a top here and skirt here) / shoes, LK Bennett / sunglasses, RayBan
It really is a bit special, I spied it at their press day ages ago and was determined to get my hands on it. I love that it's high street, it oozes designer quality and reminds me of much more expensive brands like Self Portrait and Vilshenko with the lace detailing. I'm usually not one for floral prints, but somehow the blue makes it less girly and more doable for me. Find it here, and it also comes as a two piece with a top here and skirt here (the skirt is firmly on the wish list, imagine it with a black shirt and pumps!?).
dress, Karen Millen (available as a top here and skirt here) / shoes, LK Bennett
I paired it with my favourite suede pumps (which are currently 30% off here) which I've had since the start of the year. The yellow matches perfectly, and they're super comfortable - at home I wear them with jeans and a tee all the time! I am so impressed with Karen Millen's offering for this season, I'd never have thought so many dresses would be on my must have list. Here are a few more that can't be missed (below, turn off your ad blocker to see the content, or click the links beneath).
lace neck maxi dress / lime lazer cut dress / multi coloured lace dress / navy lace dress / tweed dress
Hope you managed to enjoy the UK sunshine this past weekend, can't believe we're back to rain already!
ASOS
Claudie Pierlot
Miss Selfridge
Warehouse
TGIPD 3
Tuesday, 10 May 2016
The idea with this post series was to post it on pay day, but I got a little side tracked with upcoming projects/life - so here you go, 11 days late. It actually worked really well because last week I spent a lot of time holiday wardrobe planning and getting myself "summer ready." I was in Dubai for work last week, and I've got two girly trips coming up; Marrakesh this weekend with Emma and Lindsey, and then Sri Lanka with Lindsey and Anneli. All in all, I've happily stored away my knits and am very ready for summer shopping...
knitted vest, Claudie Pierlot / embroidered jeans, Topshop / neon stripe skirt, ASOS / navy skirt, ASOS / denim embroidered skirt, ASOS / brown sandals, Topshop / black sandals, Topshop / black lace vest, Warehouse / black dress, Miss Selfridge / blue and white shirt, Claudie Pierlot
It's very easy to get carried away with dressing for warmer weather as tops and tees are so cheap. I try to only buy pieces I know I will wear a lot, that pair up with my (more expensive) basics and staples. First things first, ASOS. I mean, what a choice. I've struggled to look any where else so when they offered to help us all dress for Marrakesh I went a bit nuts with all the options. I settled on this jumpsuit, which is just amazing. It's already sold out in the majority of sizes, but you can get hold of the skirt equivalent here which is just as lovely. Speaking of skirts, I couldn't resist this neon number or this twist on a denim basic.
When doing a high street sweep you can't not visit Topshop. I popped down to the Oxford Circus one between meetings the other day and did a bit of a haul. Included in it was this "perfect with everything" navy skirt, and these embroidered jeans (I tried not to buy into the trend, but it's not going away and these jeans are my go-to fit). Also treated myself to these cactus print shorts as they look great with my denim shirts and tees. Oh, and not forgetting my sheer annoyance with these sandals. I mean, I just spent in excess of £200 on a Tory Burch pair and then these dead ringers come up. They're available in black here, and brown here. Grrrrr. Before leaving I checked out Miss Selfridge too and spotted this awesome dress (very similar to a Zimmermann one here that I've got my eye on)...
When doing a high street sweep you can't not visit Topshop. I popped down to the Oxford Circus one between meetings the other day and did a bit of a haul. Included in it was this "perfect with everything" navy skirt, and these embroidered jeans (I tried not to buy into the trend, but it's not going away and these jeans are my go-to fit). Also treated myself to these cactus print shorts as they look great with my denim shirts and tees. Oh, and not forgetting my sheer annoyance with these sandals. I mean, I just spent in excess of £200 on a Tory Burch pair and then these dead ringers come up. They're available in black here, and brown here. Grrrrr. Before leaving I checked out Miss Selfridge too and spotted this awesome dress (very similar to a Zimmermann one here that I've got my eye on)...
Two places I'm really glad I made the effort to visit; Claudie Pierlot and Warehouse. CP have so much cool Parisian-like stuff (funny that, as that's the heart of the brand). Key favourites include a crochet vest top here, and this striped shirt. Warehouse really does have the best overall collection on the highstreet in my humble opinion. This "Self Portrait" esque vest is so good (and check out the dress version in red here), and these vests make incredible all-rounder basics (available red/white/black).
All in all, it's a great month to do some shopping!
All in all, it's a great month to do some shopping!
Barbour
Converse
Topshop
All in all, Barbour is such a lovely company. I'm so glad I took the time to go and meet the people behind the brand. The level of their knowledge is just incredible - we were given a proper history of the brand and learned so much. Not to mention the workforce; a really fab, local group of people who clearly love their jobs as much as Barbour love them. As for the collection, it's a really lovely step on from the heritage jackets and has some great basics as well as some bolder colours. View the whole lot here.
Seafarer Collection with Barbour
Monday, 9 May 2016
Having spent a lot of time on the coast growing up, Barbour jackets are rather sentimental to me and my family. So when I was asked to take part in a campaign to launch their new Seafarer collection, I jumped at the chance. The brand are one of few to still be manufactured in their original factory in Southshields, and I went up to to see how the trademark jackets are made (in house, by a dedicated team of 140 all of whom have an extremely specific part to play in the creation of every piece).
Following the visit the Barbour team treated Anneli and I to lunch at Riley's Fish Shack on King Edward's Bay, a simple little converted hut which cooks fresh fish on an open charcoal fire. It was super cold but the open fires and hot teas kept us going for some photos! I was wearing my Chock Wax Jacket (a great twist on their classic pieces), the Clove Hitch Knit and the Sealand Scarf, pairing them with my staple Topshop jeans and Converse pumps.
We ate mini fish pies, fish quesadillas, then followed by a surf and turf - needless to say we were full! There is nothing I love more than watching a kitchen in action, so it was great to see the food made from scratch. Really does go to show that simple is best; all the lobster had on it was seasoning and some freshly made lime/chilli sauce and it was the best I've ever tasted!
The lunch really did spell out what Barbour is to me; being in the great outdoors. Eating outside (in March) seemed totally crazy, but it captured the spirit of the whole trip even if we did risk frostbite at some points! We went off for a walk on the beach to help us digest all the food, you can see those pictures over on Barbour's blog here.
All in all, Barbour is such a lovely company. I'm so glad I took the time to go and meet the people behind the brand. The level of their knowledge is just incredible - we were given a proper history of the brand and learned so much. Not to mention the workforce; a really fab, local group of people who clearly love their jobs as much as Barbour love them. As for the collection, it's a really lovely step on from the heritage jackets and has some great basics as well as some bolder colours. View the whole lot here.
This post was in collaboration with Barbour.
Astley Clarke
Heidi Klein
James Perse
Lisa Marie Fernandez
Selfridges
Sweaty Betty
The Upside
Selfridges Body Studio
Tuesday, 3 May 2016
A few weeks ago Rosie and I popped down to Selfridges to see their spectacular Body Studio, the company's largest ever department. It focuses on wellbeing, fitness and body care with everything from clothing, to an in-house spinning studio, Psycle to a Hemsley and Hemsley in-house cafe (a first for the sisters and not to be missed). Selfridges asked me to select some of my favourite pieces, and talk a little about how I make sure I keep my work/life balance in check.
I thought my stay at the Four Seasons DIFC would make for the perfect back drop to show you my little edit, as the hotel was the perfect "calm in the storm" in the centre of Dubai's financial district. Usually my mornings in London are a bit of a rush, so it felt amazing to unwind and take the day slowly in my new found favourite pyjama bottoms (my first selection) from Skin. I've been doing my best to fit in some yoga practice, so after some coffee + a read of Emirates Woman (new found favourite magazine) I got my daily fill of "namaste" completing one of my favourite YouTube routines, found here. It's the only thing that helps me drop my tense shoulders and lower back. Saying that, after a night in the bed at the hotel (they have a special "sleep experience" where a team come and improve the pillows + mattress to your individual requirements) I felt the best I had for months!
I've spared you pictures of my practice as I'm not quite at the stage to publicise my childs pose, etc! But since giving my workout gear a severe upgrade I've found myself much more enthusiastic about getting going in the morning with some exercise. Selfridges' selection is second to none, with lots of my favourite names like Lisa Marie Fernandez, Sweaty Betty (these yoga pants are the bomb) and - new for me - The Upside (super cool prints and shapes, this is a winner). We then treated ourselves and ordered a big, hearty breakfast to the room- booked through the swanky app in the room.
After a quick shower I changed into my robe (again from Skin, here) which has fast become an essential "rest and relax" piece. I wear it at home the minute I get back from work, the material is a great alternative to a towel (and dries super quick) and when the sun is out it's a great cover up - I wore mine by the pool in Dubai all week. Like the pyjamas bottoms they are super soft; it felt so luxurious lounging around in them in the suite as it made a welcome change from doing the same thing at home (as I work from home, I spend an unhealthy amount of time wearing sleepwear).
Following all of that food that, I felt ready to face the day! I hit the pool with a vengeance in my new Heidi Klein bikini (another Selfridges purchase, I could spend days in their swimwear section) feeling confident and happy. So much so after a Bloody Mary (or two in some people's case) 's decided to do our own version of the Nirvana album cover, complete with a dollar bill. Unfortunately I'm not all that good at holding my breath, so below was the result.
photo from my Instagram here / bikini, Heidi Klein at Selfridges
I fully recommend paying the Body Studio a visit if you are in London as it really is a special space, failing that there is a super selection available on their website here.
This post was in collaboration with Selfridges and Four Seasons.
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