Five of the Best Wrap Coats
Is it sad to say that I absolutely love coat season? As much as I enjoy hot days spent on the beach in a bikini in summer, I'm itching to get back into boots, coats and thick jumpers come autumn - clothes are just so much better this time of year. A good coat (or 10...) is something you always need in your wardrobe and will see you through all season; this year, the wrap coat is one of the key styles and one I'm more than happy about. They ooze effortless style and can essentially become an outfit in themselves (just add a pair of knee-high boots and you're good to go). Here are a few of my favourites floating around on the virtual high street.
Outfit: Hooded Camel Coat
Coat: Front Row Shop
This is less of an outfit post and more of a coat appreciation piece. I don't think I've had a coat with a hood on since I was in primary school, so there's something quite comforting about this one. Add in an oversized shape perfect for bundling up in and you've got one hell of a winter coat - I've been using it to add a bit of drama to my jeans-and-jumper combos.
Lust of the Week: Atterley Cropped Trousers
This season, the culotte has moved on to a slightly longer length, creating a new cold-weather-appropriate style. It's more tailored too, with sharper lines and a more distinctive trouser shape - and it's one I'm fully embracing. These trousers from Atterley are at the top of my list for autumn; they blur the lines between masculinity and femininity perfectly and would look great with a pair of loafers for the office.
Outfit: The Tailored Coat
Coat: c/o Holi
Shirt: Mango (similar)
Jeans: Weekday
Boots: Kurt Geiger (similar)
When I was in London for Fashion Week, the lovely Leah from Holi invited me to her studio to have a look at the new collection. It's made up of just a few simple, beautifully crafted coats, all made in Cambodia. This one I'm wearing is made of llama and cashmere wool, making it incredibly soft and warm without being bulky. The cut, shape and design, meanwhile, give it a structured, tailored finish.
Travel: The Best Cafes in Copenhagen
The Coffee Collective
This is my last post from Copenhagen (for now, I'm sure it won't be long until I'm back) but one of the best things to do in the city is sample the many cafes and coffee shops. After all, there's nothing better than taking a break from a day full of shopping and sightseeing, and stopping off for a cup of coffee and a Danish pastry.
The Coffee Factory
A huge array of coffee (plus soya milk, which is pretty hard to come by in Copenhagen) and delicious cake in a cosy, stylish setting. It's on Gothersgade, which is a street full of little independent shops and eateries so it's definitely one for ambling along for an hour or two.
Address: Gothersgade 21, 1123 Copenhagen
Atelier September
Over the road from The Coffee Factory, Atelier September is the place to go for the best avocado on rye bread in the city (and quite possibly the best I've ever tried). Fresh and full of flavour, it's worth making a trip to this part of town for this alone, plus the interior is rustic Scandi heaven. It's quite small and popular so you'll probably end up getting a bit up close and personal with your neighbours - but it's worth it.
Address: Gothersgade 30, 1123 Copenhagen
Granola
A charming cafe in Frederiksberg with a 50s and 60s-inspired decor, Granola is a great place to go for breakfast - offering everything from big Danish breakfasts to bacon and egg brioche rolls and American-style pancakes. The service was a little slow when we went there, but the food, drink and ambience made up for it. Plus, the street it's on is gorgeous - make sure you have a bit of time to look in the neighbouring shops.
Address: Værnedamsvej 5, 1819 Frederiksberg
The Coffee Collective
The Coffee Collective is the place to go if you love great coffee. They roast their own, with each cup consistently smooth and delicious. There are a few around the city but head to Nørrebro for the original - a small basement with window-ledge seating and benches outside. The street has loads of little eateries, colourful houses and an incredible chocolate shop too.
Address: Jægersborggade 10, 2200 Copenhagen
Outfit: Turtleneck and A-line Skirt
Jumper: c/o Miss Selfridge via Fashionchick
Skirt: c/o M&S via Fashionchick
Flats: Zara (similar)
It was only after I'd taken these photos that I realised my legs were essentially the same colour as this skirt but hey, I'm resisting tights for as long as physically possible. I think we can all agree that the '70s have taken over the fashion world this year, and while I haven't massively embraced the trend, a subtle nod always goes down well.
Take this roll neck jumper, for example. It's a staple in most women's Autumn/Winter wardrobes but a slight bell sleeve gives it a current update. A mini A-line skirt is the perfect accompaniment - well done to Marks & Spencer for this gorgeous camel number in a soft wool finish (plus, it's only £25!)
Lust of the Week: ASOS Suede Jumpsuit
There's always a place for a good jumpsuit in my wardrobe, but sometimes it can be difficult to find one that's winter-appropriate. Enter this number from ASOS. In suede and with cropped wide legs, it ticks a couple of this season's biggest trends - whilst still being totally clean and minimal (my favourite). I'd wear it on top of knee-high boots and a turtleneck jumper.
Outfit: Cashmere Jumper and Cropped Jeans
Jumper: c/o Boden via Fashionchick
Bag: Zara
Jeans: Weekday
Flats: Topshop
Boden has never really been a brand I've bought into - the only thing that really came to mind when I thought about it was the endless Boden catalogues that my mum used to get through the letter box when we were younger. But then Fashionchick reintroduced me to the brand and I was so pleasantly surprised about the range of clothing on the site. It's stylish and fashion-forward, and is definitely more appealing to the younger woman now than it used to be (although I did have a few minutes of panic that I was simply getting old...).
For a classic knit that can be worn all winter long, this cashmere jumper is the perfect piece. I went for a size 10 - a size or two up from my usual - for a relaxed, slightly oversized fit. It's ridiculously soft, of great quality, and is so cosy the minute you put it on, plus I love the rich teal colour.
Travel: Where to Shop in Copenhagen
HAY House. Image c/o HAY
Out of all the cities that I've been to outside of the UK (and within it in fact), Copenhagen has got be one of my favourites for shopping. All of the stores are completely beautiful and simple in only a way that the Danes can do and each neighbourhood has some great little stores - but these are my favourites.
Weekday
If you've been following my blog for a while, you'll know that I'm a big fan of Scandi brand Weekday for affordable, gorgeous basics. There are a few in the city but head to Strøget which is Copenhagen's main shopping street and the streets that surround it - there's a Weekday here, plus the likes of Zara, & Other Stories and higher end stores.
Address: Vestergade 23-25
Monki
Strøget also has a couple of Monki stores, and you'll find that prices are slightly cheaper than they are in the UK. They're a bit small and you'll have to rifle through a bit but you'll definitely find a few gems (I could have bought at least five pieces when I was there).
Address: Frederiksbergsgade 34
HAY House
Danish design company HAY is everything Scandi interior dreams are made of. Its store, HAY House, is like the most beautiful apartment you will ever see, showing off its furniture in a stunning setting. It also sells small objects - think copper candlesticks, clean stationery and minimal cups and saucers.
Address: Østergade 61
COS
Another store I'm a massive fan of is COS, and although we have it in the UK, I've found that the selection of clothing in the Copenhagen stores is so much better. Each time I've been in I've wanted to buy almost everything in store, so it's dangerous but it's an absolute must.
Address: Østergade 33-35
Acne Archive
A brand that needs no introduction in Acne - I absolutely love the designs but at a higher price point, it's not something I can buy often. That's why Acne Archive in Copenhagen's Nørrebro district is such a god send - it's an outlet store selling past pieces at a fraction of the price, and it's not to be missed.
Address: Elmegade 21
Wood Wood Museum
Like Acne Archive, Wood Wood Museum sells previous collection pieces from its own brand, as well as brands like Opening Ceremony and Nike.
Address: Frederiksborggade 54
Outfit: Maxi Dress over Leather Trousers
Sunglasses: ASOS
Necklace: c/o ASOS (similar)
Dress: H&M
Trousers: Zara (similar)
Flats: Zara (similar)
This is a look I wore in Copenhagen when it was warm and sunny enough to go jacket-free. Layered, oversized silhouettes are quite possibly my favourite, and wearing a pair of trousers under a maxi dress means I can get a bit more wear out of them in the autumn months.
I wore this for a day of shopping in the city, taking full advantage of its much better COS, Weekday and Acne stores, plus its many gorgeous interiors shops. In fact, the shopping was so good I've got a post coming up tomorrow detailing all of my favourite spots in Copenhagen - a must if you want to experience a bit of retail heaven.
Lust of the Week: ASOS Military Coat
A long khaki coat makes a great statement piece for Autumn/Winter. I wear a similar one from ASOS in the warmer months but it's a trench so won't really do for when the weather gets colder; this one in wool makes the perfect alternative, plus the military detail adds a little something extra. I'd wear it buttoned up with a knitted black turtle neck peeking out at the top.
Outfit: Off the Shoulder Jumper
Jumper: Zara (similar)
Trousers: Zara (similar)
Flats: ASOS (similar)
The one thing I love about this time of year is the fact that it's jumper weather. I always try and look for something a little different in each piece of knitwear to keep it interesting, and with summer's off-the-shoulder trend continuing this season, I recently bought this jumper from Zara. I love the colour and the asymmetric neckline, deciding to pair it with some slouchy grey trousers for a slightly oversized Autumnal look.
Travel: A Food and Drink Guide to Copenhagen
Restaurant Cofoco
In the two times that I've been to Copenhagen, one of the standout elements of both trips has been the food. Every place that I've eaten in has been incredible, with an attention to detail and fresh, quality ingredients that can sometimes be hard to come by. It's also possible to eat really well in the city and not spend a ridiculous amount - yes, Copenhagen can be expensive, but if you do a bit of research before you go and steer clear of the touristy restaurants you won't end up spending more than you would for a weekend in London.
Cofoco
I've eaten here twice now and both times the food has been amazing. The menu is seasonal, so it changes regularly, with a selection of starter sized portions (two dishes each is probably enough). The wine selection is equally as good and the prices aren't excessive - we paid about £55 for two including drinks. Plus, the interior is Scandi minimalist heaven.
Address: Abel Cathrines Gade 7, 1654 København V. Visit the website here.
Copenhagen Street Food
On Paper Island right on the harbour is Copenhagen Street Food, an indoor street food market full of stalls selling everything from Korean to Indian, French, Danish and Italian. You can eat really well here on a budget (prices range from about £5-8 for a main) plus it has a great atmosphere. Get there early on in the evening to enjoy a drink out on the deckchairs (blankets are provided) before heading inside and making that difficult decision about what to eat.
Address: Warehouse 7 & 8, The Paper Island, Trangravsvej 14, 1436 Copenhagen K. Visit the website here.
Mother
In Copenhagen's Meatpacking District is Mother, a great little place that does incredible sourdough pizzas. It's simple, delicious and is one of few places that I came across that served Prosecco (a big deal in my books!) This place is popular so turn up early or be prepared to wait for a table - we went at 8pm on a Thursday evening and had about a 20 minute wait, but there's a bar to sit at so it's all good. Prices are approx. £10-14 for a pizza.
Address: Høkerboderne 9-15, 1712 Copenhagen V. Visit the website here.
Malbeck
Up the road from Mother is Malbeck, a small winebar that specialises in Argentinian wine. The wine selection is second to none, and it's a really cosy place to sit and sample a few of them - there are a few beers on offer too if you're not really a wine buff.
Address: Istedgade 61, 1650 Copenhagen V. Visit the website here.
Vinbaren Vesterbro Torv
A gorgeous little bar in a square in Vesterbro that serves great wine (the Pouilly-Fumé in particular) and a small selection of tapas dishes. If it's warm enough, sit outside under the heaters and a blanket and watch Copenhagen go by.
Address: Svendsgade 1, 1659 Copenhagen.
Mikkeller
If beer is more your thing, head to Mikkeller, a small bar that serves beer from its own brewery and selected micro breweries around the world. In the past, it's been voted the best bar in Copenhagen and it's easy to see why - the selection of beers is immense and even if like me you're not exactly a beer enthusiast, you'll find something you'll like. Plus, true to form, the interior is gorgeous and is about as far removed from a regular pub as you can imagine. It's up the road from Cofoco, so head there for a drink before or after going for a meal.
Address: Viktoriagrade 8 B-C, 1655 Copenhagen. Visit the website here.
Copenhagen is also full of incredible cafes and coffee shops, but they warrant a post in themselves - stay tuned!
Outfit: Oversized Grey Jacket
Sunglasses: ASOS
Jacket: Monki (similar)
Trousers: Zara (similar)
Flats: Zara (similar)
One of my favourite things about Copenhagen is the unbelievable shops - COS, Monki, Weekday, Acne - it's a minimalist's dream. I picked this jacket up in the Monki sale when we were out there (tactfully only putting a couple of things in my suitcase so I HAD to buy a few bits on my trip), and I just love the oversized fit. I made the jacket the statement piece by pairing it with some simple loose-fitting faux leather trousers, making it the perfect outfit for wandering around the city in.
Lust of the Week: Missguided Knitted Culotte Jumpsuit
I've been really impressed with Missguided recently - its Autumn/Winter collection already has some incredible pieces; think classic camel coats, chunky knitwear and everyday bomber jackets. This rib knit culotte jumpsuit is one of the standout pieces on Missguided for me at the moment - such an easy piece to wear, it can be worn over a polo neck and boots when the weather gets colder. Plus, at only £25, you can hardly say no.
Outfit: Cropped Jeans and Bell Sleeve Blouse
Sunglasses: ASOS
Top: Weekday (similar)
Jeans: Weekday
Bag: Zara
Flats: Topshop
I've just got back from a few days in Copenhagen and although I didn't think it was possible, I've fallen even more in love with the city. I've got a few travel posts in the pipeline (the food is so bloody good there'll be at least one post about that alone) but for now, this is an outfit I wore on one of our days there.
The Danes are ridiculously stylish but laid back - nothing is over the top; it's all about gorgeous, understated pieces - and big scarves and Nikes are part of the uniform. If you go for a visit, don't bother taking a change of clothes for the evening either - jeans and a well-cut tee are dressy enough here. With that in mind, I kept things pretty casual when I was there. I've hardly taken these Weekday jeans off since I bought them and they made the perfect trouser option during my trip - here, I paired them with this slightly bell-sleeve blouse (also from Weekday) that I bought out there, finishing off with pointed flats, a simple cross body, and cat eye sunnies.
Taking a Break
Farrah - Brown Sugar Bikini c/o Triangl
I don't feel like I've really stopped for the past few months, what with work, keeping up with my blog, general life and a more-than-hectic fashion week. With that in mind, I booked this week off work for a well-deserved break, starting with a trip to the spa at Bodysgallen Hall in north Wales - a gorgeous little place in the middle of nowhere that does incredible treatments and makes you come out feeling like a new woman.
I took this opportunity to wear my new 'Farrah' bikini from Triangl (for reference, I opted for XS in the top and S in the bottom) and seeing as the weather was uncharacteristically warm and sunny, took advantage of the outside space before my massage and facial.
Of course, a week off wouldn't be a week off if a little holiday wasn't involved. After falling in love with Copenhagen when I went for fashion week last month, I was straight on the internet to look for flights to return. My man and I are there now for a few days of eating, drinking, shopping and sightseeing - the perfect break. I'm forever thinking about planning my next trip and get itchy feet after staying in the UK a little too long - in fact, Jet2holidays recently got in touch with me to ask how I got over post-holiday blues, and honestly, booking another trip always does the trick. Not the cheapest way and not the most practical, but certainly the most effective!