Monthly Archives: November 2014

The Brighter Side

17th November 2014
Sometimes it’s easy to fall in to a rut when it comes to winter dressing, gravitating toward a palette of black, grey and navy just because the sun isn’t shining as much. I know this is something I am very guilty of- last winter I actually made monochrome my “thing” and as much as I do love it this year I want to make more of a conscious effort to embrace bold and bright colours; if nothing else it’s bound to help keep S.A.D. at bay and brighten up those shorter days.
I can’t for the life of me remember where this dress is from. Mum passed it on to me, brand new with tags after it had sat in her wardrobe unloved for a while and I’ve binned the tag and the dress is in the wash…Where it’s from isn’t important though, it’s such a HAPPY dress, the bright colours make me feel instantly cheerful and I do love a simple shape like this.

The photos were taken near Ben’s studio in Stokes Croft, our usual weekend daytime haunt, or base for further potterings around the city. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again- this is such a vibrant area full of personality, the perfect place to wear such a busy dress.

The boots came via Shoe Zone last year and have lasted well, they are looking a little worse for wear here though thanks to them getting a thick coating of mud at a fireworks display the night before and a hasty sponge clean! I’m always amazed that I overlooked Shoe Zone for so long, they once again have some really gorgeous boots in stock at super bargain prices- don’t be put off by the cheap price though, I’m yet to have a problem with the quality of a pair from here…

Which clothing ruts are you looking to break out of? No doubt I’ll be back in monochrome before long, old habits die hard and all that…

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Festive Fashion with Allsaints (guest post)

15th November 2014
While it might still seem to be a bit too early to start thinking about Christmas looks and outfits, there’s no denying that the festive season is nearly upon us. As soon as the Halloween rush is over, all the stores are straight on about Christmas Party looks and getting ready for the season.
Personally, dressing up for Christmas is one of our favourite times of the year. There are always a fair few parties, and it’s the prime opportunity to get out all those sparkles and red pieces that you otherwise might not be able to wear.
The Work Party

This is the party where you might need to be a bit more reserved but this doesn’t mean that you still can’t have fun with the outfit. There are some stunning black or silk dresses out there that would be ideal. These are sophisticated pieces that will keep you looking professional enough, but still really stylish. Add in some sparkly accessories and statement shoes and you’ve got a winning outfit. And you’ll definitely need to be wearing that Santa hat.

festivity at office

The Family Party

This is where you can go all out with your Christmas looks, as you’ll have the comfort and warmth of being in at home. Grab something with a bit more colour and print and just put your feet up and enjoy the Christmas meal. Alternatively, you can finish off by adding a Christmas jumper on top of you outfit to give it that extra Christmasy feel. And don’t forget to add in the matching Christmas slippers!

celebrate at home

The Host

When hosting, you want to be as comfortable as possible, while also still looking chic. You’ll be running around all day so you want to make sure that you’re in control and are wearing something practical. Again, a black dress with some colourful accessories and cute flats is sure to keep you comfortable but also looking good. Clinch the look in with a cute and sparkly belt.

hosting

Check out AllSaints for everything you need to look amazing this festive season!

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Boomf!

14th November 2014
Around a year ago now I introduced you lot to Boomf and their awesome idea of making personalised marshmallows. I’m delighted to see the brand go from strength to strength over the last twelve months whilst sticking to their unique selling point, and when they re-contacted me and asked if I’d like to feature another box I had no reservations about saying yes!
Last time I let the folk at Boomf pick the designs, this time I chose myself- and obviously went for a Mae theme.
The Marshmallows are expensive, I’m not gonna lie, at £15.50 for 9 (this includes speedy delivery) they are a luxury gift but in their defence they are something unique, pretty large and very, very tasty and I wouldn’t hesitate in purchasing these as a special gift for someone, nor be upset if someone purchased these as a gift for me! I’d rather get a box of Boomf than a block of posh but stinky cheese…
With Christmas not far away and the hunt for the perfect presents getting up to full speed I think you could do far worse than heading over to Boomf and getting creative…likewise, if you know someone with a special Birthday looming why not purchase a pack, pop some cocktail sticks in the bottom and turn them in to edible cake toppers?
This is one of those ideas that still gets my mind boggling- I want the kind of brain that comes up with such an invention. It’s also one of those ideas that I will forever love and be drawn to…now, who to put on a marshmallow next?

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P.S. The only downside to putting your pet on a sugary confection is it makes them almost too cute to eat…almost!

Posted in brands I love, christmas, food, gifts, review

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The Pink Coat of Joy

12th November 2014
Another reason why I have been super excited about the recent colder weather is that it’s FINALLY time to bring out the winter coat I bought from Joy right back at the start of September. I can’t help but feel instantly cheered when I pop it on, the bright pink colour and super snug collar put a smile on my face.
At £125 this is hands down the most money I have ever spent on a coat and I felt very grown up in making such an investment. I know, pink isn’t the same as a classic camel or basic black but it’s subtle enough to remain classy and the faux fur collar brings a touch of glamour. I just know I’ll be wearing this for years to come, and given the price of some of the coats I’ve coveted lately (like this one) it really isn’t all that expensive.
Joy left me spoilt for choice when it came to coats and I tried on several of their fabulous styles in a whole rainbow of colours but in the end it was this one that stole the show- I’ve been coveting a pink coat for years now, way before they became the “in thing” and this one does the job perfectly.
Have you seen any “must-have” coats yet this year? What’s the most you’ve ever spent on one?

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Stocking fillers for the whole family this Christmas (guest post)

11th November 2014
Christmas is nearly upon us and this year we wanted to take on the challenge of hunting down the perfect stocking fillers for the whole family.

Buying for one person can be tricky enough, let alone finding amazing gifts for the entire clan. With so many different people to consider, the present buying conundrum can transform generous gift giving into a stressful dash for last minute presents.

Don’t panic, we have rounded up some Christmas crackers ideal to suit even the fussiest member of the family.

Gift for Mum
Gift for a Sister
Impress your Brother
Gift for Dad
Mums

While you know most mums will happily accept any old present you give them, make this year extra special by giving her something she’ll truly love.

For anyone struggling with what to get their mother for Christmas, we think the DKNY Crosswalk Watch could be the answer. A sophisticated stainless steel watch with a crosswalk bracelet and decorated with a string of diamond inspired quartz, this classic watch is perfect for any occasion. Spruce up a casual outfit to create a more put together look, or include it in your business attire to add a touch of professionalism and class.

Additionally, a cashmere scarf is always a lovely gift. Choose a scarf of plain colour with fringing at both ends to provide comfort and style during the cold months.

Teenage brothers and sisters

Give your sister the gift of celebrity style this Christmas with the Kardashian Kollection Chunky Charm Bracelet.

A striking gold tone bracelet that’s bang on trend with an assortment of unique chunky charms. The charms feature mock black opal stones, tiger tooth details and gold brushed spikes, perfect for any fashion conscious teen wanting to make a statement.

Moving onto one of the more difficult people to purchase gifts for – the teenage boy. If your little brother is as useful as a chocolate teapot when it comes to giving genuine gift ideas, then the Casio Classic Watch is a decent solution for him. The rubber strap and water resistant casing mean that this durable watch is practically indestructible. The simplistic black design and digital face will look great with all outfits and will also be suitable to wear to school.

Bath bombs also make fabulous gifts for boys and girls alike. Younger boys enjoy creating an explosion of colour in the water, while girls can opt for a more luxurious spa-like bath supplement.

Dads

As dads are notoriously challenging to buy gifts for, why not consider a practical present like a professional Fountain Pen? This elegant writing pen has a twist action cap, a black polished lacquer body and is finished with sophisticated chrome detailing. The Equinox Black fountain pen also comes with refillable cartridges so you can guarantee this is a practical present that will last a lifetime.

While it may sound boring, you can never go wrong with a good pair of socks. Opt for high-quality material such as pure cotton and if you’re feeling a little more adventurous go for the novelty kind!

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Posted in christmas, gifts, guest post

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