Yearly Archives: 2014

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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Co-ordination Is Key

10th November 2014
I’ve had the outfit in this post saved in my wardobe, waiting impatiently for it to become cool enough to wear to work, and given that the temperatures are now dropping by the day I’d say it’s finally time (ok, so it was probably time way before now if we go by outside temperatures, but my work place has it’s own micro climate at times!).

Co-ord: Primark (skirt and top) | Tights: Primark | Boots: Jonak at Sarenza

I think it was July/August time when I first spotted this co-ord set in Primark and decided I needed it. I can’t remember exactly but I think it was £20 for the two pieces, both of which work really well on their own with a plain top or bottom added so you got real value for money. Unusually for a Primark piece this is really well made and fits like a dream, I hope they bring out similar styles in the future as it makes for such an easy work outfit with mix and match options too.
I’m not sure if these boots will see me through the entire winter. I own so many pairs of ankle boots but these are the ones I keep returning too and they are starting to look a little worse for wear. I should probably force myself to wear some of my others to give my feet a break, but these are just so comfortable and go with everything…I’d never heard of Jonak before getting these, and I’ve just checked out some of their latest styles- these are now calling my name- but with plans to move in the new year as serious spending ban must start, and shoes are the first thing to stop buying!
Are you a fan of the office co-ord? I’m thinking a trouser suit may be a good way to go- after my spending ban ends, of course!

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Posted in life stuff, outfits, sarenza, shoes

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11 Reasons To Never Forget

09th November 2014
Tuesday marks the 11th day of the 11th month, and at the 11th hour we should all take a minute out of our day to remember those who lost their lives for us in the First World War. Do you know what we are actually remembering though? And how it affects our every day actions? Read on…

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“They went with songs to the battle, they were young,
Straight of limb, true of eye, steady and aglow.
They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted,
They fell with their faces to the foe.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.”

– an extract from “For the Fallen” by Laurence Binyon, written in 1914

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The October Degustabox

09th November 2014
Another month passing means it’s time for another Degustabox review! The October box actually arrived about ten days ago and most of the contents are now long devoured but I’m pretty behind on blogging (just for a change) so my review comes a little later than planned…
I swear these boxes keep getting better and better, each month there seems to be more and more products that really get me excited! It’s a brilliant way to try new foods and has gone a long way in breaking me out of my comfort zone and improving my relationship with food.
There were two products from Bear in the box which really excited me as they are one of my favourite brands when it comes to snack foods and have been for a long time! The Bear Alphabites were a sample present, there was a full sized box in a Degustabox some months ago and they have easily become my favourite cereal- I’m not a cereal for breakfast kind of girl but I usually keep a tub in my work bag for grazing on the go. The Bear Paws are pure fruit snacks with no nasty ingredients. Aimed at children- with five paw prints to find in the pack these are also perfect for grownups and super tasty. At 55p for a pack these are cheaper than a chocolate bar and perfect for on the go!

Also in among the snacking selection was a Get Buzzing bar which due to a nut allergy I couldn’t sample but Ben has eaten it and given his approval. I love to have a few bars stashed away and Get Buzzing do some nut-free options too so I’ll be making the most of the 10% off your first order code and treating myself to some.

The Ken’s Kitchen meal kits are super cute and a really clever idea. Each pack contains three steps to create a delicious meal in just 20 minutes with the addition of just a few fresh ingredients. At £2.50 each and several varieties to choose from these are a great store cupboard buy- I haven’t tried the Bengal kit yet but I know Dad has his eye on it. What I have tried is the Blue Dragon sweet chilli sauce- I never used to like foods with even the slightest hint of spice but I’ve recently become obsessed with sweet chilli so this is going on everything from noodles to chicken to salads.
I always love the sweet treat selection in the Degustabox as I have a raging sweet tooth 24/7. The Dr. Oetker premium 90% extra dark chocolate has been stashed away with my baking supplies ready for some festive creativity (assuming I get time) as has the cocoa powder- christmas cookies anyone?!

The Jelly Belly jelly beans have long since vanished as they are my favourite sweet ever! The sour ones were so super tasty I couldn’t bring myself to share! I’ve been taking the Enhance Drinks pod in to work with me so I actually drink something other than coffee all day. I have the orange and passion fruit flavour which is highly addictive- and with no added sugar it makes a great alternative to plain water.

Brioche and Pain Au Lait (with choc chips) from Brioche Pasquier are both incredibly tasty products. I actually took these in to work to share with colleagues, alongside a jar of nutella and they didn’t last long at all- I’m not alone in being a sweet treat fiend. I love brioche at the best of times, but toasted with something warm and chocolately on it? Heaven!
As much as I have a sweet tooth I also like my savoury snacks and the Special K Cracker Crisps are a delicious alternative to “real” crisps which I’ve never really enjoyed. The BBQ flavour is strong without being over-whelming and they have a really satisfying crunch and 60% less fat than the average crisp on sale in the UK.
Possibly the most amusing product in the box was the Solo Marshmallow Creme– I haven’t dug in to this yet but there is a recipe for some fudge on the side of the tub which I plan to make ASAP so I’ll do a separate post on that.
Last but not least there was a coupon in the Degustabox Fridge section of the box for a four-pack of the New Greek-Style Yoghurts from Benecol which have a unique cholesterol lowering ingredient (plant stenols). These are thick, creamy and utterly delicious. At £2.39 a pack they are on the pricey side for yoghurts but as a treat, or for those who need to watch their cholesterol intake they are a really tasty dessert or snack.
So there concludes the round-up of the October Degustabox. Still haven’t tried the service out yet? For £12.99 per/month you can have your own box delivered to your door and get to try all these fab products (that would cost far more in total) for yourself! Sign up now to claim £3 off your first box when you use the code: L2K2O

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