I plan to wear mine with everything so I apologise for the Instagram bombardment in advance. This outfit is a typical thrown-together-weekender. A striped top is a given for any outfit (in my book). As you know, I have tonnes of them but this was a present from my sister last Christmas from Petit Bateau here. My cape is a couple of seasons old from The Outnet so I've put some similars at the base of this post - it is still available in some sizes here. The jeans are new, and a new length for me which I'm loving. Find them here.

My boots are actually from L.K.Bennett too, here. I have a few pairs of ankle boots from them but these really are another level of goodness. I wore them with a little LBD for my birthday drinks on Friday and they look equally as fab with more dressed-down pieces. I love the gold details on the laces and the heel is just the right height to combine looking smart and being able to walk...

Any way, enough about me and onto what you really want to know about - winning a Mariel tote bag complete with your very own Boyarde initials on courtesy of the lovely team at L.K.Bennett. Here you go:

Last week was an absolute blast. Having finally got home from Scotland (a two day storm meant we were stuck on the island for a little longer than planned) we had a very quick turn around to join the Quintessentially lifestyle team for two days of adventure as part of Aston Martin Lagonda's new Art of Living experiences.

I'm no car expert, but I like fast and good looking ones. Aston Martin is one of those brands every one knows, every one associates with luxury but yet few actually get the chance to drive one. So when we were invited to do just that and be some of the first people in the world to drive their new DB11 it was an instant yes (and I never need buy G a Christmas present ever again...).

We arrived at their head office for a tour of the factory which really was fascinating. I had no idea how intricate the processes are when building a car, and Aston Martin really let the car owner get involved - they can come in and see their car being built and are notified when the car is at each stage of development.

It was really apparent that they are a "quality over quantity" brand - with only 85,000 car ever made in the last 104 years (90% of which are still on the road) which is the same as other car manufacturers you might otherwise put alongside AM produce in 6 months... Having learned all of this, I could hear the DB11s being revved up outside and I was itching to get in and give it a go...

I really wish I was better at describing how it felt to drive, other than just saying "OMG it's unreal." Other words that could just about work include: incredible, unbelievable, brilliant... You get the drift. I've been in some nice cars in my time, but this one really is on a new level.

We drove in pairs across the Cotswolds with routes carefully planned out so we got a real sense of the car's performance, stopping for lunch at Cowley Manor before driving on to our home for the night, newly refurbished hotel, The Painswick. This place was my kind of hotel; boutique feel with very cool interiors, good sheets, excellent bath stuff (I'm a stickler for this, it was all Neom Organics which is one of my favourite brands). Their veranda (above) felt like it was in Italy, so beautiful!

After a great dinner with the group it was straight to bed to get up bright and early for day two. We drove back to Aston Martin Lagonda HQ through some gorgeous villages like Bourton on the Water and Stow on the Wold (stopping to take a few pictures with Lucy and Etienne) before a morning discovering how every Aston Martin design starts off it's life in clay.

We met the man behind it (John) who was so interesting, and it was great to meet someone clearly so in love with what he does for a living. The craftsmanship involved was incredible, and it was almost relieving to know that in this day and age some skills are required away from a computer to make something like an Aston Martin.

A few hours later, having all failed miserably at trying to craft a car from clay, we reluctantly left to go back to London. If you're looking to treat yourself or someone you know to a unique experience, do this. Just do it. I can't put into words the feeling of driving a car like that, and I'm now itching to do it again. Aston Martin now do all kinds of exciting trips around the world as part of the Art of Living series; check them out here. 

New clothhhessssss. I cannot stop buying new stuff. This never happens, ever. Firstly, the dress in the header picture above. It's from Zara, I featured it on my Instagram here and looks like I'm not the only one... Slightly gothic florals seem really key for autumn: they have also made a more office-worthy version here, and a maxi dress here. Vilshenko (phenomenally expensive Russian designer, I think) eat your heart out (ps this Iris and Ink shirt really should be considered too...)

"Pretty" is also very important, which is a new thing for me as I often try and look anything but cute. However lace doesn't have to mean sh*t fabrics and Barbie make up anymore. This top from Marks and Spencer looks great with my denim staples (more on that below) and don't forget about new-essential Realisation Par; their silk tops are perfect for someone wanting to add some flair to their otherwise pretty reserved wardrobe (thats me, btw).

Bomber jackets just aren't going away. I found one I loved in Berlin, didn't buy it, and now it's haunting me. This one from Topshop is perfection. As they're all different colours choosing one is difficult - but this is reversible so it pink and blue. Check it out properly here.

I'm also buying polo necks, something I didn't think would happen to me. After buying quite a lot of summer dresses this year I'm not prepared to give them up in cooler weather. I read Elle last week and they had a whole piece on putting a polo neck under a dress and it looked really cool. I'm carving this Chloe one but always test out a look using the high street first. So, I've bought some ASOS two-pack basics to try it out (get yours here). So far so good, and they look awesome with denim too... (ps - saying that, Topshop have brought out a winter version of that summer dress, here. Must have)

Which leads me neatly to a new found jean love; Levi 501s. Yep, I've made the pilgrimage and man it was worth it. I got mine in the sale here and you'll be seeing a lot of them on the blog as they now never come off my body. So good - shaped but slouchy, tough but soft. It's love - if you're after a good boyfriend jean get these and only these. 

I'm starting to get into knitwear again, and cardigans make the most sense at the moment - along with cut out detail knits - as they're the easiest to throw on when it's not that cold. This Ganni one is going to be a bit of a showstopper, having been worn by the usual street style bunch a lot. And really don't forget about Iris and Ink this season; this jumper is just one example of what they've got to offer...

Lastly, wanted to introduce a new brand to me Storets. I'd seen it on a few bloggers but when I looked at the site I questioned the quality. However, a few proseccos down the other night I made an order. It's all arrived, I'll feature it on the blog shortly - but in the mean time I just wanted to say how good it all is and I've been really impressed with the fit and service. Below is what I got:

The gingham dress is the absolute dream, my friend Holly had it and I couldn't say no having seen it on her. Very flattering. This navy boho dress is a complete copy of the must-have-brand Dodo Bar Or but at the price, who cares (also in white here)? The designer clearly makes too much money on theirs when someone can rustle it up for so much less... This ribbon detail blouse is a great staple, as the gingham off shoulder, this green satin skirt looks so much more expensive 

I've travelled quite a bit this summer and always think the most essential beauty items are the ones you can't go without when on holiday/abroad - the ones that make it into the case, and justify the extra baggage cost so you can put the bottle in. So without further ado, here are the things that I just can't not have with me at all times:

I have to admit I don't scrimp on my beauty products. It's my face - surely if you're going to invest in something, it's your face? Yes, as a blogger I get quite a bit sent over, but as someone who only bought face wipes (my sole beauty product) when they were in a 2 for 1 offer, for me to even suggest spending money on things like this is a worthy testament. Take brands like Perricone MD. I would never have discovered them had their PRs not shown them to me - now I can't leave the house (wherever I am in the world) without their Face Finishing Moisturiser. It's a lazy girl's dream - one little finger full hides a multitude of sins. You will not regret the investment. 

Likewise with Tom Ford's make up. Damn me it's expensive, but you can't beat it. Their Bronzing Primer gives the same look as a two week holiday but at a fraction of the price (see what I did there!?). One squirt does the job (that sounds wrong) - instant glowy, not-at-al-shiny skin that doesn't feel like you've got make up on. Pair that with Benefit's Sun Beam dabbed across your cheek bones and you really do look very, very good.

I'm not a huge make up person so when something makes it on here (not to mention, onto my face on a regular basis) it really must be good. Last month I was sent over a few bits from 3ina, an Aussie brand. I usually really like products from Australia as they tend to be very well thought out - good for outdoor living and sunshine which these products definitely are. The thing that I can't get enough of is the lip crayons. I don't even wear lipstick but this (I have colour 108) is the bomb. Even my boyfriend noticed it - WHICH IS A MIRACLE - and they're only £8.

I've blogged about it tonnes before but my mascara is Charlotte Tilbury. It does clump up a bit after a while but it's industrial strength and copes with all the rain storms, tears, sea waves and sweats that go with my life... Lastly - and something I never thought I'd give two hoots about - brows. I swear by Benefit's newly revamped brow mascara Gimme Brow (yeah, it's a thing). I can't explain technically or professionals what it does - but it gives my face a really "oomph" by thickening and shaping my brows and it's so easy it's untrue.

Skin care wise I've got some goodies this month, some old some new. I had a clear out in my bathroom cupboard and found Aesop's Camelia Nut Hydrating Cream and am now livid with myself for not using it sooner. My skin seriously dries out in patches when I've been in the sun, and wrinkles quickly become more defined. Having used this for the last fortnight, they've gone. And I don't mean faded, I mean GONE. Just go and buy it here. 

I really really want to stress how good Guinot's Minceur Rapide stuff is. I have had cellulite since I was a kid (a vivid memory of my early teens was a friend asking what the bubbles on my legs were during swimming class, devastating) and I absolutely hate it. This is the only stuff I've ever found that works. Do both to a) buy it, and b) use it properly for two weeks. I sort-of cut out the bad foods during that time, but not really, and seriously saw a difference. Now, I'm almost cellulite free in previously awful problem areas. Get yours here.

Wow, this is a long post - sorry! I'll finish up with two goodies: Essie's new Gel Setter is a must for anyone going away. For £10 it makes at home gel manis possible - the first time I used it my nails lasted three weeks. I'm still obsessed with Ren's Radiance Mask and use it religiously once a week to give my skin a deep clean.

Today is a slow one... Last night I went to see Coldplay with the girls and Marks and Spencer - am feeling the midnight espresso martini decision... The only win is remembering I bought this jumpsuit from ASOS which I am going to rename The Most Comfortable Item Of Clothing That Ever Dared Exist. 

I cannot explain to you how much I love wearing this, literally the most comfortable thing in the world ever. It's super soft and the really relaxed fit means you sort of lose all worries about arms, tums and bums... if I could wear it everyday I 110% would. I bought mine true to size (this is a size 10) but could probably have dropped to a smaller one if I'd wanted to as it's very roomy - depends how you want to wear it...

I threw my hair up and didn't even check myself in the mirror before these photos so apologies for the bedraggled-ness... I kind of thought that if I hid my eyes under my new Jimmy Choo sunglasses I'd get away with it. They're so sparkly and shiny I'm hoping all attention is directed to them and not my face... They are most definitely an investment (find them here) but I found these ones from Jeepers Peepers at ASOS that'll do the trick for under £25, or these for SIX POUNDS...

I wore my box fresh new trainers, which I am a bit obsessed. It's the first time I've ever had non-sport-brand trainers. They're from Iris and Ink and it's love. I'd been pining after a pair of Isabel Marant or Saint Laurent ones for months but when my friend showed me these I instantly knew I had to have them. Such good value, love the ostrich skin effect and really comfy from the beginning. Iris and Ink haven't done footwear for long but the collection is awesome, find it all here.

My bag is new from Reiss here... I struggle with finding good mini bags that are pale coloured and needed one for events over the summer (most of mine are all dark colours which doesn't look right at weddings). I really like the fringing as it adds a little something to an otherwise very plain and simple blue suede tote... 

In case you missed it, sales started properly this week. Have a look at my edit here. Whatever you're doing this weekend, I hope you have a great one. We are spending the whole 2 days enjoying our new area and unpacking the final boxes... Loving being back in North London!

jumpsuit = jumpsuit, ASOS / similar here / similar here

sunglasses = sunglasses, Jimmy Choo / similar here (£24!) / similar here (£6!!!)

bracelet = green agate snowdrop charm / turquoise stone moon bracelet

trainer/sneaker = trainers, Iris and Ink / same in blue satin / Iris and Ink footwear collection here

bag = bag, Reiss

We have a new home. It seemed like we had been waiting forever and would never get there, but we're finally in (thank you to Chestertons in Hampstead for being the most proactive and useful estate agents I've ever come across). I say "we" have moved in, the boy had cleverly picked this weekend to go on a 3 day stag do in France... So having picked up the keys to the new place (all over on Snapchat if you fancy: annaelerihart) Lindsey and I put on some heels and went to the pub for a celebratory beer... 

The weather has been a bit off recently. We had a glimpse of summer and just when we'd got ourselves ready for it, it went. My jeans have been really handy for the stop-start sun... They're my favourite fit from Topshop; the mom jean that you already know I live in. When the brand asked me to pick out some of my favourite summer transition pieces they really stood out as they're a bit more interesting that plain jeans, yet aren't overly "in your face" patterned... Get them here. I bought some lovely little white vests to go with them, which it was a bit too chilly to shoot but will be making an appearance soon. (NB - buy your regular size and take the pain of the first couple of hours of them being too tight, they stretch...).

The shoes... ahhh the shoes. My beautiful Chloe pumps here. I'm so pleased with these, and so glad I got them in red as my inner-neutral self really wanted the taupe coloured ones. They're perfect for a little bit of a statement... I've found some high street similars here and here in black and white for £20 so I bought those as well so I have the best of both worlds!  As a note, they come up small. I am always a size 4, as these are, and after one wear the suede stretches a little so I needed an insole... So if you are treating yourself, go a size down.

embroidered jean, here / similar here (darker denim) / similar here (slightly cheaper)

top, iris and ink / similar here (in white)

shoes, Chloe / similar here / similar here (£20!)

sunglasses, Fendi 

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...

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!

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. 

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...

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...

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...

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!