Outfit: Oversized Trousers and Crop Top
Top: Solace London
Trousers: COS
Happy (almost) New Year's Eve! I wore this outfit on Christmas Day but if I were heading out tomorrow night (I'm moving to Manchester this weekend so I've decided to be sensible and stay in with my man and a bottle of champagne), I'd probably wear something similar. This outfit is the perfect alternative to the usual party dress, plus it's not over-the-top dressy if all you're doing is going to a dinner party or having drinks with friends.
Outfit: Post-Christmas Basics
Sunglasses: ASOS
Coat: Zara (similar)
Jeans: ASOS
Trainers: Nike
That week between Christmas and New Year can be a bit of and odd one. You spend most of it eating - and becoming sick of the sight of - Christmas Day leftovers, getting cabin fever after being stuck indoors with your family for a little too long, and maybe spending a day or two in the office (doing, let's face it, minimal work).
For me during this week, style is stripped down to the basics; those jeans that are kind to your food baby, the super-soft oversized cashmere jumper, a sleek pair of trainers and a mannish coat you can wrap yourself up in. Oh, and preferably little-to-no makeup.
Outfit: Keepsake Maxi Dress
Dress: Keepsake
Clutch: Whistles
Ring: c/o Wallis
Christmas may well be over but with NYE just days away, we're still fully in party season. This is what I wore to my work's Christmas party last week, with a quick snap of my look in Lily's kitchen before heading out. It was a ball so I got dressed up more than I would do normally, while still being able to keep it quite simple. I love how clean and structured this dress from Keepsake is so I wanted the rest of my look to tie in with that, with minimum accessories, makeup and sleek hair.
Outfit: Wool Tunic over Trousers
Tunic: Zara (similar)
Trousers: Zara (similar
Flats: ASOS (similar)
Jumpers are great in winter and all but central heating often leaves me wishing I hadn't put on so many thick layers in the morning (especially in the office). Enter the sleeveless wool tunic; the perfect compromise. I've been wearing this one from Zara over jeans or dark grey wool trousers (seen here), leaving it on its own or layering on top of roll neck jumpers when the temperature calls for it.
Lust of the Week: Homeware Accessories
Next month I'm moving to Manchester, so in between finishing up work for Christmas, festivities and wrapping presents, I'm currently spending my time scouring the shops and the web for pieces to fill my new home with.
We're renting so we're limited to decor but home accessories and little touches here and there will enable us to put our own stamp on the place. These are just a few pieces I've got my eye on; I'll mainly be sticking to a palette of white and grey, with the odd bit of copper and mustard for an injection of colour.
Outfit: Baum und Pferdgarten Striped Shirt
Shirt: Baum und Pferdgarten at Coggles
Jeans: c/o ASOS
Flats: c/o ASOS
Those pieces of clothing that resemble pyjamas - oversized dresses, loose-fit trousers and big jumpers - are pretty much the pieces I love the most. This shirt from Baum und Pferdgarten is one of these. It's unstructured and loose (I went up a couple of sizes so it wasn't fitted), and the stripes and pocket detail are straight from those vintage luxe pyjamas I love. Paired with cropped mom jeans and pointed flats, you can't be mistaken for having just rolled out of bed.
Outfit: Oversized Roll Neck and Cropped Jeans
Jumper: ASOS
Jeans: Weekday
Shoes: New Look
In the hectic run-up to Christmas I'm all about those cosy outfits I can just throw on in the morning before heading out to work, so cropped boyfriend jeans and slightly oversized jumpers have been my go-to recently. I've been wearing these pointed block heels from New Look a lot too, which turn the look from basic to stylish without detracting from the comfort side of things (plus they're only £20!)
Lust of the Week: Weekday Camel Coat
The best thing about winter for me is by far the coats. This is the piece of clothing that should always be invested in, especially if it's good quality and has a classic style. Take this coat from Weekday for example; it's made from a heavyweight wool-mix, so you know it's going to last, plus the camel shade and long mannish style makes it totally timeless.
Outfit: Wool Culottes and Roll Neck
Jumper: Zara (similar)
Culottes: Zara (similar)
Shoes: New Look c/o ASOS
The wind and the rain has brought me into my poorly-lit house to take my outfit shots so apologies for the questionable quality of these images, but I wanted to share this look anyway. It's one I've found myself in quite frequently recently, mainly because it's super comfy but still looks smart.
These culottes from Zara are quite possibly the cosiest trousers I own (outside of my pyjamas) and are perfect for cold winter days. Paired with a roll neck in a darker shade of grey and burgundy block heel shoes, this is one of those easy outfits that make a big impact.
Christmas Gift Guide for Her
From top left: Topshop Bone Heel Boots, ASOS Coat, & Other Stories Hand Cream Gift Set, & Other Stories Lace Soft Bra, Made Jasmine Ring, & Other Stories Jumper, ASOS Pyjama Set
Christmas is approaching scarily fast, so I'm spending most of my spare time scouring the net for the perfect Christmas gifts. Trouble is, I end up just finding the things that I want, and my virtual shopping trips become counterproductive. So, these are the pieces topping my Christmas list this year; ankle boots, a classic grey coat, luxe pyjamas, graphic knit, delicate bras, simple jewellery and handbag-must-have hand cream. Now I just need to sort everyone else out...
Outfit: White Tunic Shirt and Boyfriend Jeans
Shirt: Atterley
Jeans: ASOS
Shoes: Topshop
I went a bit mad in the Black Friday sales this year, so much so that my bedroom is essentially a mini warehouse full of boxes waiting to be unpacked. But I figured I was actually saving money with the discounts.
Anyway, this shirt was one of the purchases I made on the day; I'd had my eye on it for a while (I love the length, stepped hem and tunic-style shape) so it was the perfect time to snap it up. For a clean, simple every day look I've been wearing it with these black cropped boyfriend jeans from ASOS and block heel ballet pumps from Topshop that I seriously can't get enough of.
Lust of the Week: & Other Stories Gold Jacket
With party season coming up, any new additions to my wardrobe are starting to become ever so slightly jazzier. Emphasis on the slightly - by jazzier I mean a hint of matte gold instead of my usual black, or simple pieces updated in jewel tones; party wear doesn't have to mean an abundance of sequins and faux fur.
This jacket is perfect for me at this time of year; it's the kind of piece that can be dressed up or down, and will instantly turn the ubiquitous LBD into something spectacular. Plus, the kimono style will score you some serious style points.
What to Wear for a Job in the Fashion Industry
Roll neck: c/o ASOS
Jumper: c/o ASOS
Ring: c/o ASOS
Jeans: c/o ASOS
Shoes: New Look c/o ASOS
A few weeks ago, the lovely people at ASOS got in touch with me about their 'Be Yourself' workwear campaign, all about how to dress for work depending on your role and the industry you work in.
I'm the Editorial and Marketing Executive for luxury fashion sites Coggles and AllSole, which basically means I write about fashion and lifestyle all day (dream). For those of you who want to get into a similar job, I wouldn't say a fashion degree is a necessity; I studied English Language at Newcastle University - mainly because I wanted to focus on my writing - and built up my editorial experience at a news site in London for a couple of years.
My blog was my route into fashion, allowing me to do a bit of freelance work before landing my current job and now I absolutely love it. Getting a job in the fashion industry can be difficult but if you really want it and you're passionate about it, put the work in, persevere and don't be afraid of the (inevitable) rejection - it's totally worth it in the end.
My office style isn't really your typical tailored 'workwear' - in fact, most outfits you'll see on my blog I'll wear to work too - but I still like to look like I've made a bit of an effort. At the moment I'm loving cropped, slim boyfriend/mom jeans worn with block heel shoes (check out ASOS footwear for similar) and a great piece of knitwear.
I like to experiment with layers and now it's getting a bit colder I've started wearing a thin roll neck jumper under a chunky knit for an extra style detail (and warmth). I love that the cream jumper contrasts with the black, whilst the red and the burgundy shoes add a touch of colour to the look. I get up early, so hair is kept to a minimum (dry shampoo is my best friend), wearing it down or back in a low bun.
Outfit: The Cut-Out Coat
Coat: House of Sunny
Top: COS
Culottes: Zara
Boots: Zara
Last week I pretty much spent every day in all black in preparation - and celebration (if you can call working all hours a celebration) - of Black Friday. It seems this is something that has stuck with me, and I'm still finding myself reaching for all things black in my wardrobe. I'm slowly easing colour back in though, with a flash of camel culotte under my cut-out top from COS.
Speaking of cut-outs, how incredible is this coat from House of Sunny? It's oversized and belted, just how I like it, but the cut-out shoulders make it almost architectural in design. Granted, it's not the most practical when it comes to those biting winter winds but with a chunky knit underneath it's all good.
What to Buy on Cyber Monday
Black Friday may be over but that doesn't mean there aren't still deals to be had. Today, I'll be taking advantage of the ASOS and Topshop Cyber Monday sales and here's what I'm buying...
Topshop
ASOS
When it comes to big discount days, I look to those investment pieces that I'll get the biggest deals on; the chunky knit that will see me through winter, the classic ankle boots, or the mannish statement-making coat. Enjoy 20% off everything at ASOS with code CYBER and up to 50% off at Topshop. Thank me later.
Where to Eat and Drink in Liverpool
Bold Street Coffee
At the beginning of 2015, new job opportunities got me leaving London and heading back up to the city I call home: Liverpool. I hadn't lived there for almost seven years and absence certainly made the heart grow fonder because over the past year, I've completely fallen back in love with the place that I know so well.
On my travels across the world and in the UK, I've never come across a city quite like Liverpool. It's rich with culture and history, and its people are fiercely loyal. The shopping is great and you're spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurants, museums and art galleries, but for me it's the small places full of character that make Liverpool what it is. The foodie scene has massively improved over the past few years, and I've spent much of the past year exploring everything the city now has to offer.
You'll find all the chains - Jamie's Italian, Pizza Express, Gourmet Burger Kitchen etc. - in the main shopping area Liverpool One, but give them a miss if you want a real taste of the city. Just a short walk from here you'll find Bold Street - the independent street of Liverpool - full of incredible little restaurants, bars and cafes. Use this as your anchor to the equally as good streets around it; Seel Street, Berry Street and Hope Street, and you won't go wrong.
Bold Street
Just off Liverpool Central station you'll find Bold Street. Ignore the shops towards the bottom (unless you have a massive urge to visit Home Bargains) and walk up towards the top. You'll find everything from independent book shops to award-winning hairdressers and gorgeous interiors shops (a trip to Utility is a must), but it's the selection of eateries that makes it a must-visit for me.
Mowgli - This only opened this year but it has queues out of the door most evenings. The whole concept is small plates of Indian food - Indian tapas if you will - and it serves some of the best Indian food I've ever tried. It's also contemporary and stylish; definitely not your average curry house. They currently don't take bookings so go and put your name down (whenever I've been, it's been about an hour wait) and go next door to Leaf for a drink while you wait.
The Italian Club - Authentic, fresh Italian food that's cheap and cheerful but definitely doesn't sacrifice quality. This is a good place for a hearty meal or a slice of cake and a coffee after a day of shopping. If you're into seafood, head up the road to their sister restaurant - The Italian Club Fish.
East Avenue Bakehouse - Another newbie, East Avenue Bakehouse is great for brunch, Afternoon Tea or a slice of cake. They serve bigger meals and dinner too, with a British-based menu that I'm yet to try but it always looks good. Everything's fresh, homemade and locally-sourced too.
Bold Street Coffee - A must for anyone who loves coffee. Bold Street Coffee serves up fresh, specialty brews and will give you a much better cup than anything you'll find in Starbucks. They offer up cheap breakfasts and lunches too if you want a bit of food to go alongside your latte.
Bakchich - A fast food-type joint serving up very generous Lebanese food. This is a good place to go if you want a quick bite but don't want to compromise on good food; it's popular though, so you may have to wait a bit if you go at a busy time. Word of warning - if you want a glass of red with your chicken shish go elsewhere; Bakchich doesn't serve alcohol.
Seel Street
Seel Street is lined with bars and it's the place I always head to for a night of drinks and dancing. There are some good places for food here too though (just maybe don't go on a Saturday night!)
Alma de Cuba - This place is a restored old 18th century church so the inside is gorgeous. It's a really popular bar at the weekend (if you go, make sure you're there at 11pm when rose petals fall down from the ceiling) so I'd say avoid it then if you want to go for a meal. The menu has South American and Caribbean influences and the food is incredible; they serve up a mean Sunday roast too.
Arts Club - Another building dating back to the 18th century, the Arts Club re-opened in 2014, becoming one of the best gig venues and art spaces in the city. Even if you're not going for an event, the Bar & Kitchen is a great place to go for a drink or a bite of American-influenced food.
Berry Street
The gateway to Liverpool's China Town, Berry Street is a whole other side to the city. To be honest, I haven't tried many places along here but there's one place that's definitely a must-visit.
Roja Pinchos - Nope, not Chinese, but a small restaurant serving northern Spain-style pinchos in a totally relaxed setting. You can eat (and spend) as much or as little as you want so it's great if you want a full-on meal or a quick bite. They don't take bookings for less than six people so head downstairs to sister bar Abajo for gin and cava if you find yourself having to wait.
Hope Street
Last but not least, Hope Street. Up in the gorgeous Georgian Quarter (worth a visit for looking at the old houses alone), Hope Street is flagged by both of the cathedrals, has the Everyman theatre, Philharmonic Hall, and some of the best restaurants in the city. Don't miss the Philharmonic Dining Rooms either; it's a real old-school pub dating back to 1900 and is a Grade II listed building - plus the inside is incredibly ornate (people visit just to see the gents' which is full of roseate marble - honestly).
London Carriage Works - Slightly pricier than the other places I've mentioned, but this place does incredible food and wine and is definitely a good place to go for an occasion. A lot of the produce is locally-sourced, with the menu being a mixture of British and Mediterranean-inspired food.
Host - A pan-Asian restaurant with a really relaxed vibe, this is one of my favourite places to go pre- or post-theatre. The food is incredible and completely effortless; essentially, it's a much better version of Wagamama.
The Quarter - Technically not on Hope Street but as good as (you'll find it on the corner of Falkner Street), The Quarter comes from the same people behind Host, with a similar easy vibe. The food is contemporary and Italian-inspired, plus they serve up a great breakfast.
Want to see how Liverpool has changed over the years? Check out Travelodge's piece on Evolving Cities - Liverpool, covering everything from the Albert Dock and the Liver Building, to The Beatles and modern-day hidden gems.
There are new places popping up in the city all the time so I could go on forever but for now, this is my definitive list. A big thanks to Travelodge for asking me to write this post and finally getting me down to putting this guide together; if you visit Liverpool and try any of these places, please let me know!
The Best of the Black Friday Sales
Image via Pinterest
Black Friday is upon us once again, and it seems after the madness of last year, this once American-only day of crazy sales is bigger than ever in the UK. Today is the day I'll be getting all of my Christmas shopping done (plus a few treats for myself), since Black Friday is set to be an even bigger day sales-wise than the traditional Boxing Day Sales. I'll be sticking to purely online though (no black eyes or elbow fights for me), so I've rounded up all of my favourite shops - plus discounts - I'll be visiting on the day.
Topshop - Up to 50% off selected lines
Whistles - 20% off everything
Anthropologie - 20% off everything
River Island - 20% off everything from 11am - 3pm with code BFRIDAY15
Coggles - 30% off everything with code BLACKFRIDAY
ASOS - 20% off everything with code CYBER
MyBag - 30% off everything with code BLACKFRIDAY
AllSole - 30% off everything with code BLACKFRIDAY
Outfit: Emerald Jumper and Cropped Jeans
Jeans: Weekday
Shoes: Topshop
When it comes to colours, I definitely play it safe and tend to go for those neutral shades - black, grey, camel, navy or white - but every now and then I like to inject something a bit different into my look. Granted, this jumper isn't exactly eccentric but that rich jewel tone is a gorgeous alternative to my usual choices.
For a casual look, I've been wearing it with my favourite cropped Weekday jeans (do you ever buy something and wonder how you got dressed without them before? Well, these jeans have that status for me) and new Topshop shoes. Seriously, these shoes are amazing - they're so comfy, go with everything, and really lift an outfit.
Lust of the Week: Just Female Belted Dress
At the moment I'm really loving those pieces that are essentially smartened-up pyjamas and lounge wear; the long dressing gown-inspired coat, the slouchy trousers with matching shirt, or the oversized maxi dress that isn't too far off something your grandma might wear.
This belted dress from Just Female is the prime example; its shape is that of a belted kimono but the silky, tailored fabric makes it appropriate for times other than a Sunday morning.
The Sunday Pamper Session
Jumper: Zara
There's nothing I love better than a Sunday with absolutely no plans; getting up late, having a lazy breakfast with the Sunday papers and a much-needed pamper session. My current skincare obsession comes from Mio - the 'fit' skincare range designed to firm, moisturise, banish cellulite, and everything in between. Fortunately for my sensitive skin, too, the products are free from all the rubbish and chemicals found in most.
Recently, I've been using the Liquid Yoga to wind down - pop it in a warm bath and it does exactly what it says on the tin; it's instantly calming and relaxing. Before getting in the bath (or shower), I use the Double Buff exfoliator. It goes on dry skin which isn't something I'm used to but boy does it work - even after the first use my skin was so smooth and silky. Finally, The A Cream comes out. Super moisturising, it also firms and strengthens, making this a product I can't live without.
Once that's done, the rest of my lazy Sunday is spent catching up on blogs or magazines with a good cup of tea or coffee. This gorgeously minimalist cup is from HAY (one of my must-visit shops in Copenhagen - click here to read more) via the equally lovely Amara. If you're as obsessed with interiors as I am (seriously, just look at my Pinterest board) you'll spend hours racking up a wishlist from this site - it's perfect for Christmas gifts too.
Outfit: The Suede Biker Jacket
Jacket: c/o SheIn
Jumper: ASOS (similar)
Jeans: ASOS
Boots: Zara (similar)
The suede biker jacket is probably one of the easiest pieces to wear this season; you can throw it on over a dress or jeans and a jumper and it instantly adds a stylish element to your look - plus, it puts a different spin on the ubiquitous leather biker. This jacket is faux suede but it's still incredibly soft, and at only £20 it's an absolute bargain.
Lust of the Week: Finery London Whitmore Dress
With party season coming up, I'm spending most of time planning what I'm going to wear to various Christmas parties, drinks and dinners. Finding a good outfit isn't as easy as it sounds - especially when you've got to take various dress codes into account. This Finery dress has topped my list for those occasions that are smart but not black tie; I love the simple but interesting shape, and the gorgeous fabric gives it a real luxe feel.
Outfit: The Flared Sleeve Shirt
Shirt: Front Row Shop
Jeans: Weekday
Shoes: ASOS (similar)
A crisp shirt and a pair of jeans is one of those classic, failsafe outfits that will always be one of my go-tos. Sometimes it can get a bit boring though, so I look for pieces that have an interesting element to them, much like this shirt from Front Row Shop. Not the most practical (hoiking up my sleeves to type isn't the most glamorous of actions), but these flared sleeves give another meaning to oversized and create a more interesting silhouette to the normal shirt-and-jeans combination.