Wonderfully Warm

Wonderfully Warm by yesrem featuring a forever 21 beanie

Birthday Wishlist: 23

My birthday is fast approaching and to sooth the pain of turning 23 I decided to put together a birthday wish list. I'm such a trooper.
It feels like Christmas has only just been and gone so there isn't a great deal I'm loving at the moment. Instead there are a few bits that I 'need'. Floral suitcases and nude heels are definitely needed at this time of year what are you talking about?

Gold Frame Pinboard

I'm forever wanting to stick things on my walls - tickets, Polaroid photographs, memos and keep sakes but as my bedroom is still only newly decorated I don't want to ruin the walls with blu tac. I'm still scarred from having to painstakingly peel off a whole wall's worth of blue tac from my uni room.
So hurrah! I have found this brilliant alternative. A cork board is ideal for pinning anything up but when I stumbled across this on the 'New In' section on ASOS I immediately added it to my 'I must have this' list in my mind. It's such a cool twist on a classic pin board and makes a cluster of West End and Harry Potter Studio Tour tickets far neater!

Floral Suitcases

Bare with me here. They may seem like a ridiculous request on a birthday list but to convince myself I need them I have come up with two uses for these pretty kitsch cases! For one I need a new memory box. The one I have had since I was about 14 is full to the brim so the mini suitcase would be ideal for that. And secondly, the larger two are perfect for storing hair and make up products. See told you they were a necessity...

Mom Jeans

I have been wanting these jeans for a while now but I am very much a skinny jeans kind of girl. I think they'll be great when the weather gets a bit warmer to wear with little flats and a cropped striped top.

Real Techniques Make Up Brushes

I'll be the first to admit that I know very little about make-up but I do know that the Real Techniques brushes are amazing plus the whole blogging world rave about them so they must be good. I already own the Powder Brush and can't get over how soft it is so I feel I need to experience the rest of the collection!

Office Jitter Bug Heels

These shoes have been calling me for a while now but I already had a pair of nude heels that I loved so I couldn't justify it. Now, however, my beloved heels have suffered death by mud and dirt so it's definitely time to replace them. I love the height of them but the platform will make them easy (ish) to stride along in and the ankle strap adds extra support.

So there are a few things on my wishlist, I also would like an electric toothbrush but that's a little less exciting for you all...

Roll on March!

The Christmas Playsuit

Black Playsuit - Topshop £36

Black Heels - ASOS £31.50

Blue Playsuit - Motel Rocks £45

Nude Heels - Zara £49.99

Navy Playsuit - River Island £60

Black Heeled Boots - H&M £29.99

It's coming up to that time when you have to decide what to wear to all the Christmas 'dos'. Or so I have been told by my friend, Gemma who asked me today what I would be wearing to our work Christmas Party. I for one am a very last minute person so this seemed far too prepared in my books! I tend to decide an hour before I go out what to wear and then proceed to get into a stress trying to figure out what goes with the shoes I so desperately want to wear.

For a lot of girls a staple on a night out is the classic LBD - teamed with a pair of killer heels and red lipstick you really can't go wrong. For me, however I'm always in a playsuit. I like the simplicity of having an all in one and not having the fuss of having to find a top that goes with bottoms - Plus the fact that you can dance around like a loon (or occasionally accidentally fall down) and not flash everyone in sight. Bonus!

These playsuits are a nice alternative to the sparkly dresses and sequined numbers that will be gracing the clubs for the next months in the lead up to my favourite day of the year. They are all intricately detailed with just the right amount of glitz for this festive time of year.

If you prefer to cover the tops of your arms - sensible really in this weather - then this Motel Rocks playsuit is ideal. The pale blue and white creates an almost frosty feel and would look complete with a nude pair of heels like these from Zara.

Have an eye for more detail? Navy is in keeping with warm Christmas tones - flattering and beautifully detailed this tshirt-style playsuit is the one I will be buying. A chunky heeled ankle boot adds a toughness that works well with the delicate beading and will mean you can stay on your feet for hours!

This black Topshop playsuit is a smarter and more sophisticated outfit choice. The shaped neckline and slimming colour is a good alternative for those who are used to the little black dress. It is still glamorous and with a slim heel your legs will be never ending!

I can't wait to get all glammed up in a new outfit in the coming weeks but on the other hand I'm excited to buy a wonderfully over the top Christmas jumper! So many reason to love this time of year. Michael Buble Christmas album anyone?...

Winter Warmer - The Trench Coat

1. Mango
2. House of Fraiser
3. Mint Velvet
4. BooHoo

As sad as it to realise the nights are drawing in and sandals are becoming less and less appropriate, it's also a comfort to know that soon we can wrap up warm in layer upon layer of cosiness. Time is nearly upon us to drag out those wooly jumpers which take up so much room in the wardrobe - Admit it, they fall on you too when trying to free up some space for bikinis and summer dresses.

If the thought of winter fills you with dread, fear ye not, I have a way of celebrating the upcoming season and of course it involves some retail therapy. 

When I think of the classic trench coat, Burberry springs to mind. Their beautiful designs and classic detailing have me drooling whilst their price tags send me running for the hills. My Dad actually owns a Burberry trench coat from decades ago but sadly it is a few sizes too big so I can't take it under my wing. 

For a few years now I have been eyeing up buying my own trench coat but have never found the right one - or rather have never had enough spare cash to splash out on a good quality one. This year I have been more prepared and have done my research. I have found a number of great options in a whole spectrum of prices and in a range of designs.

1. This Mango design is definitely my favourite that I have found thus far. The colour is just right - sounds petty but they come in so many shades you end up lusting over one in particular - and the length is perfect as it is long enough to keep your derriere warm on cold Winter walks. At almost £70 it sounds a lot but when I think back to the more expensive coats I have had over the years they are definitely a good investment to have, lasting longer and more importantly keeping you warm.

2. This black option is very smart, sophisticated and more appropriate for someone who commutes as it won't show the unavoidable stains and marks you are bound to encounter. Again, the length is great and would look amazing teamed with a bright bag and thick black tights ready for those cold mornings.

3. A shorter design such as this Mint Velvet one is perfect for a more casual occasion. The above-the-knee length is also good for petite women as it is less likely to swamp them. A chunky knit scarf will add the texture to this more laid back suggestion.

4. Finally, this BooHoo find is a fabulous price and still has the smart elements a trench coat needs. I love the colour of this coat as it could be worn with anything from smart office wear to jeans at the weekend. This is a brilliant piece at a bargain price.

Until I save up for my own Burberry trench coat any of these lovely options will most definitely do! Which one do you like best?

Who Wears The Trousers?

1. Topshop

2. Dorothy Perkins

3. H&M

4. Topshop

5. Oasis

I'm a jeans girl through and through but recently I have been drawn in by the tailored trousers and 'smart jogger' trend. Sadly, jeans aren't Summer appropriate but the British Summer can often be misleading and what looks like a warm day outside, perfect for ice cream, is actually too windy for a pretty skater dress. Printed trousers were my go to during the warmer months and I'm sure will continue to be as the leaves begin to fall.

The combined effortless but still sophisticated look has gone from catwalk to highstreet and is now available in Primark (of course they've caught on!).

                          

 Primark Trousers - £13

These trousers are usually way out of my comfort zone but combined with a plain black tee or a smarter cami this is an easy to wear combination and a fun twist on my usual Jamie jeans look. 

If you aren't feeling brave enough to be bold in the colour stakes, go for a monochrome colour palette with styles like 1 or 4. The design is still eye catching on closer inspection but the black and white won't draw too much attention to you.

Feeling bold? Go for bright reds and purples or even a colourful pattern (2 and 5). These warm colours will take you through Autumn and are even Christmas appropriate. Win win!

I've got my eye on a few more pairs for the near future. Saving's overrated, right?

Cosy Corner

Any kind of retail therapy is right up my street but recently I have swapped ASOS and Zara for the likes of Homebase and Ikea. 

I'm giving my bedroom a bit of a makeover and seeing as the colour scheme is going from Princess pink to neutral mints and creams I needed a few accessories that were in-keeping with the theme.

Map - I need to jazz up one of the cream walls I'm having and have chosen a large world map to bring some life to it. Since igniting the travelling bug in me last Summer I decided that I would like to physically see where I have been and where I would like to go in the future. This wipe-clean map is ideal for planning my next trip and it will also handily bring some more colour to my room.

Cushions - Every bedroom needs a large number of cushions. I don't care that they take ages to take off at night and then replace again in the morning, they make a bed look so cosy and inviting - I'm all about the comfort! I've decided to go for a range of random cushions rather than matchy-matchy to create a rustic boutique feel.

Owl Candle - I've already got two little owl ornaments but an owl combined with a candle, I mean who can resist that? I promise I won't become a crazy owl lady.

Bedside Table - I stumbled across this small bedside table on The White Lighthouse Company and I'm so glad I did. My room is quite small so I can't have too much bulky furniture. The drawer and two baskets will hold everything I might need mid-sleep and plenty of room for the 3 books I usually have on the go.

What would you buy if you were re-decorating your room? 

From This Day Forward

Floral Dress - Zara
White Blazer - Topshop
Cream Heels - Zara
Lipstick - Yves Saint Laurent
Bag - Zara

I've only ever been to one wedding and I was three at the time so my memory of it is somewhat limited. All I remember is not wanting to sit still for the ceremony, not exactly a magical experience and I wasn't even a bridesmaid. The cheek of it. So when I received my friend of nearly 18 years' wedding invitation I was thrilled to say the least.

Weddings conjure up thoughts of celebration, love, a reunion of old friends and of course a new outfit.

My friend, Sophie's wedding is in the Autumn, however for me this summery look is the kind of outfit that springs to mind when I think of a wedding. A flattering skater dress with a fun but sophisticated print in pretty feminine colours such as this one from Zara. I know I always go back to Zara but this frock is an absolute steal at only £29.99. It also has a cut out detail at the back which adds an interesting twist for a formal occasion.

This clean and simple style of shoe is very popular and on trend at the moment. The nude colour creates the illusion of  elongating your pins and I think go well with the other pastel accessories I have teamed them with.

A little bag is a necessity, keeping your camera, confetti and tissues all in one safe place. I have picked out the blue-grey tones in this dress with this smart box bag (again from you-know-where). I would normally opt for a clutch bag for an occasion like this but it's always nice to have the option of not having to hold a bag awkwardly for hours. The long strap with gold chain detailing can easily be tucked away leaving a neat clutch with gold hardware.

I'm not one for planning makeup or even claiming that I know much about it but a soft pink lipstick would be a nice finishing touch for this pretty feminine outfit.

I can't wait for the big day on October 5th and to see Sophie. I'm sure she will look beautiful.

What would your ideal wedding guest outfit be?

Wish List #1 | The Classic Satchel

Available from The Cambridge Satchel Company

Every girl has that one collection that they want need to continue adding to - shoes, jackets, perfumes, mine happens to be handbags. In my opinion I could never have enough. Daytime bags, shopper bags, clutches, the office bag, over-night bag, the list is endless. One bag that I long to have and have yet to successfully save enough money to buy is the Cambridge Satchel. 

This trend seemed to start many moons ago but with prices starting at £99 and upwards it was quite a hefty sum to pay for a bag. However the sturdy, classic design and choices of colours make them worthwhile. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes from 'The Classic' to 'The Designer' and in every colour you could want.

I like the adjustable strap as many bags with long handles are often too long and hang at an awkward length. This would sit just on the hip at an easy to open height. The iconic fastenings and firm base keep it practical whilst the pop colours make them fun and young. 

I currently love the pale mint colour and to celebrate the Royal birth they are offering 10% off the Classic design in the colour 'Sweet Pea' (hurrah) and 'Navy'. This is surely a sign if any that I should purchase on my next pay day with my favourite colour on offer. 

Summer Loving

Yellow- Zara
Floral Blazer - Zara
Black Levi Shorts- Urban Oufitters
Chanel 'Chance' Perfume - Debenhams
Ballet Pumps - Pull and Bear

17 days. Just 17 little days until my getaway to Portugal. British weather has done us all proud these last few weeks or so with an almost constant heatwave but it's not quite the same as staying in a country where the locals can actually deal with the non stop humidity and high pollen count. It feels almost strange that we seem to be having a real Summer this year - touches wood to prevent jinxing - but I'm certainly not complaining!

This little outfit is what I would wear during the day, with the simple but eye-catching vest top from Zara brightening up the classic cut off Levi shorts. Ballet pumps in this nude colour are comfortable, easy to pack and go with pretty much every holiday outfit - a suitcase must have. The floral blazer adds a smarter touch taking it from day time to dinner appropriate.

Chanel 'Chance' is my absolute favourite perfume and with only a few droplets left it will most certainly be re-purchased this coming weekend. I wear it all year round but it is definitely a summery romantic scent with fresh floral tones. Just lovely.

I think this is a perfect simple Summer outfit and can be recycled by adding jeans when we reach those Autumn days. A smart but easy to wear ensemble ideal for this lovely weather!

Bimbling in Barcelona

After inter-railing around the major cities in Europe last summer I definitely have the travel bug. This year, due to lack of money and my job, a month's long trip was not possible sadly, but my friend and I decided to visit Barcelona for a long weekend away. It was one of the cities we wanted to do on our travels but never managed to so it was the perfect excuse.

A fair few people I know had already been and told me what I must see and do, how beautiful the city is and that the weather would be lovely. Oh and also, there are thieves everywhere!  A little handbag was needed, one with many compartments for the necessities such as camera, purse, and obviously room for tacky souvenirs you (and your family at home) really do not need. This neon yellow Zara bag works well with the plain shorts and tee combo, adding a kick of colour to an otherwise simple outfit. It wouldn't look out of place in the guaranteed Barcelona sunshine either. 

A simple shift dress is definitely a key piece and fits so easily in your hand luggage (should you be on a budget like we will be!). Keeping cool and airy is a must when travelling on the metro and walking around the busy streets so the shape is perfect and the pattern is quirky in a fitting summer colour. 

Loose cami tops are my new go-to's as they go with everything and can be worn day or night. This black one is ideal for dinner on a warm night and teamed with this fun structured stripe skirt it adds a smart edge. Topshop and River Island do them in a wide-range of colours and in cropped lengths too.

I can't wait for Barcelona now! Now a question of how I'm going to zip up my over-filling suitcase. Wish me luck!

One Dress. Two Outfits.

White Dress - Topshop

Orange Bag - Zara

Cream Brogues - ASOS

Black Heels - Zara

Cream Bag - Topshop

Rings - ASOS

It is about this time of year, if not before, that I usually have my dress for my University Summer Ball sorted. Not only is it exciting searching for a dress that you actually need for once but it's also a welcomed break from tedious and mentally draining revision. Now that I am a graduate (sob sob) I no longer need to search for a pretty dress and shoes which aren't suitable for walking and dancing on the rugby field. However, I couldn't help but have a glance online and see what I might have chosen had I needed an occasion dress.

I'm not one for a big glitzy dress and the three Summer Ball dresses I had were all very simple and designs which I have been able to wear since. I always wear black on a night out, no particular reason for it but for some reason I am always drawn to it. It's therefore strange that two of my previous end of year dresses were white. For someone with fair skin and not a hint of tan on me, this was an odd choice but the dresses were classic and simple and I still felt dressed up in them. 

This white Topshop dress is definitely something I would wear with a pair of killer black heels and this expensive looking, yet remarkably affordable, clutch bag. Thinking ahead to summer I would wear this dress during the day and the brogues from ASOS would look cute teamed with the amazing bold orange bag. I love the subtle nude colour of the shoes as it allows the bag to stand out against the plain dress. 

I love the cut out detail in the dress. It really adds to the otherwise plain design and gives a cheeky glimpse of skin which makes it a perfect summer dress. I would wear both outfits taking the dress perfectly from day to night and I am tempted to buy some of the accessories I have styled it with here. Time to start saving.

Summer Pastels

1. Knitted Sweater, Zara

2. Floral Dungarees

3. Daisy ring and plain ring, Topshop

4. Bowling Bag, Zara

5. Flat Sandals

6. Tassel Loafers

I have been eyeing up all of these adorable pieces for a few weeks now and with payday only five days away (yes I have a count down, please don't judge) I can't wait to purchase a couple of them. I absolutely love the floral dungarees and I think they're a nice twist on the usual denim number that has been gracing most of the high street recently. The bright sweater could be worn both with this playsuit or even with jeans and converses to brighten the outfit up. I'm excited to incorporate some more colourful pieces into my wardrobe very soon.