The London Mummy, Author at The London Mummy

Big Fashion

How To Update The Little Black Dress

Unless you are a fashion blogger, stylist or celebrity, no one has time to think out of the box when it comes what to wear on 31st December, so let’s get back to basics and see what we can do with the LBD.

Everyone has one in their cupboard. I am going the mesh route like the LBD icon, Audrey Hepburn above. Don’t worry if the only LBD in your wardrobe is a bodycon (i’m impressed) or velvet – skip down to how to accessorise…

For those on the hunt – here are some ideas.

Monsoon Rene Lace Dress £89

Biba Velvet Sleeveless Mesh Dress £119

Mela Lace Overlay Dress £45

Karen Millen Lace Pencil Dress £155

Use your LBD as a basic. A block of colour to flatter all shapes.

If black isn’t one of ‘your colours’, avoid high necks and add necklace that does suit you.

But not a beaded necklace. Unless you want to look like a hippy.

The key not to looking fuddy duddy in a LBD is update your accessories.

Leave the diamond studs and black court shoes. Just NO.

Kate Spade has some fabulous jewellery that will instantly make you look stylish and on trend = younger.

A double stranded or long necklace is a good starting point.

Long Chain Necklace £60

This cuff is gorgeous and comes in lots of different colours if you want to add a dash of colour. I also love the green one.

Cuff £50

If you fancy the green theme – a bit more original than black or gold (as safe and lovely as it is) and less cliched than red – these green tassel earrings would look fab.

Just don’t wear earrings, necklace and bracelet all at once. Choose 2/3.

Shoes. The bain of my life. Now well into my thirties (!) they have to be comfortable. They have to be flattering. They have to be considered. I can’t bring myself to resort to my black suede court shoes that were my staple in my twenties.

Personally, for me – it is all about the shboots. I made that up.

They are really called shoe boots.

They tick all the above – comfortable (no going over on your ankle as they support nut not in an orthopaedic way!) and if you match the colour of your boots with your tights – very elongating.

As it is winter, it is black tights for me, but if you have just got back from a spray tan or even better, some winter sun, get those pins out by all means.

Office Shoe Boots £79

Last but not least, a little clutch. Not a cliche glitter clutch though!!! Obviously it will depend on what dress you are wearing, but I love the look of this one from Guess (£55)

Have a fabulous Christmas (some outfit inspo here) and I will see you on the other side!

Lots of love

Lucinda xx

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Days Out Family Life Fashion Little

Warwick Castle : An Educational Christmas Outing

A visit to a castle conjures up school outings, tours of the castle room by room and if you are lucky a token whip around the hedge maze. When we were asked to visit Warwick Castle with* Joules Clothing, we decided to give it a go as both boys have recently had Castles as their class topic.

Situated above Banbury and below Coventry, it was an easy journey along the M40. The castle is hidden until you are through the gates.

It is truly magnificent from the outside but only when you go over the draw bridge do realise the enormity of it.

I felt the interiors were much more accessible than a lot of castles with few barriers and wax like assistants growing at you if you go too near the four-poster bed. As it is run by Merlin Entertainments who also have Seaworld and Chessington to their name, they have made it child friendly and interactive.

Sadly as it was mid winter, the maze and adventure playground were closed. However, Christmas at The Castle is on till 31st December.

The story time with Santa was enchanting and the visit to the Princess in the tower was a treat for little girls.

My highlight other than using the castle as an adventure playground (you can navigate your way around the whole castle along the top, weaving through small passages and up and down-arrow staircases.

Be warned if you suffer from vertigo though – lots of see through walk ways. The 4 year old wasn’t too delighted by the narrow spaces so managed to wrangle being carried around.

All this exercise built up a bit of an appetite and given a choice between the sit down courtyard restaurant and the all you can eat pasta and pizza buffet – yup you guessed it – we went for the latter and were pleasantly surprised by how tasty the food was for only £12 per adult and £6 for a child.

The highlight of the day was the Time Tower.

It consisted of an interactive video taking you through the history of Warwick Castle, the battles and the families that resided there. Its was a great brush up on Common Entrance history!

Despite the freezing temperatures, we were all kept warm with our new Joules coats. They are very well made, well insulated, comfortable and good shapes.

Here they are…

Belmont Padded Coat £59

Noah Parka Jacket £69

Farrington Jacket Was £99 Now £59

I chose the Gosling Padded Coat due to the curve at the bottom and the flattering lines at the back.

Sadly the red is sold out but there are still some Burgundy, Navy and Caramel left.

H’s coat is also sold out but I love the Stafford Marine Navy Quilted Jacket as a smart alternative. (They also do a mens version!)

When I am next on the hunt for a proper winter coat I will definitely head over to Joules. The selection is vast and you know everyone will be properly insulated!!

PS. I have added these to my basket, as they aren’t just good at coats!

The Mens Crew Neck Jumpers £49 are very smart.

This Navy Boys Rugby Shirt is unbelievably in the sale!

I love this Pincord Dress – very original.

What do you think?

This is not a sponsored post however entrance to Warwick Castle and the jackets from Joules were gifted.

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Big Fashion

Christmas Day Outfit Ideas

What do you wear on Christmas Day? I never really think about it until the big morning itself but this year I thought I would be more mindful. It’s one day where you have to find the right balance between smart (for the oldies), comfortable (for the jobs) fun (for the kids) and it ultimately has to be what you want to wear.

My Tick List (not all at once!)

Colour. Usually red. Green, gold and winter white also works.

Sparkle. There has to be a bit of sequin or glitter somewhere!

Cosy. A warm jumper will mask a multitude of sins. Too tight is of limits as who wants to hold back on the chestnut stuffing.

Comfortable. Flat shoes or boots! Unless you are going out for lunch or dinner, heels are off limit as I find tottering around on carpet rather odd.

OUTFIT 1

I love this festive red knit.

This cashmere funnel neck from Marks would be a dream to own.

Perhaps the ripped jeans wouldn’t go down too well at church, so upgrade to some smarter ones.

You could try these really luxe Velvet Trim ones that have a broad line of velvet down the side.

Or these button detail high rise ones are really flattering, as they draw the eye up and down.

I love this check shirt, but to avoid looking like Worzel Gummage add a slick of red lipstick.

OUTFIT 2

So in an ideal world, Mr R would like me to where something like this.

But that’s not going to happen. (Sorry darling!) If you do want to add a splash of glamour on Christmas Day why not try a sequin skirt and slouchy jumper (possibly not so short as the below but I do love this outfit).

The black roll neck tones it down.

This season, Marks and Spencer electric blue sequin skirt has been a sell out. I love it.

This black funnel neck is a wardrobe staple that we would get lots of air time.

These red pom pom earrings are rather festive and fun.

If pom poms aren’t your thang, these crystal earrings are beaut. At £9 they are an absolute steal!

You can never have too many pairs of opaque tights. They keep you cool when it’s warm inside and keep you warm when its cold outside. Perfect if you have hit the menopause and have an out of control body clock!

What’s your festive style? I imagine you are too busy to think about it and ultimately it doesn’t matter what you wear. As long as you think of others, be kind and helpful – that’s the best outfit you can wear! x

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Interiors

How To Achieve a Magical and Smart Christmas Look

Our Christmas tree growing up was a flashing multicoloured magical ~~monstrosity~~ filled with decorations that meant something rather than being styled and perfect. I loved it. I especially loved the coloured lights and it signified we were near to seeing the big man himself very soon. Now I am in charge, I have subconsciously banished the coloured lights from our house. Am I doing them a disservice trying to make my tree (home) like something from House and Garden?

Well, whatever the psychology is behind it, today I am looking at the Christmas decorations that are on sale over at House of Fraser to see what I can add to the collection, whilst staying house proud but also making it magical for the kids.

My reasoning is if I stick to 3 colours, there will be some unison and I can go off the beaten track with a few crazy decorations.

Once the lights are up a few fun baubles are key.

Nutcracker in a Box Now £14

As Scandi as you want to go, no Christmas should be without flashes of red. If red tinsel is too much, these cute little tree decorations would help you along and I am sure the children would love them too.

Mini Novelty Snow Globe £9

Little ones will spend hours gazing (and trying to touch) these delightful snow globes and could even stand alone on the mantle piece.

Santas List Glass Bauble £9

I am heading to a Christmas bauble swapping party next week. I don’t know whether it is smash and grab or the oldest goes first but I can’t wait. My offering is this bauble that tells a story, has vivid colours and looks quite expensive!! ha, lets hope I am not left with it at the end!

Snow Dusted Tree £34

A small light up tree is a great centre piece or perfect for a side table. Carry it around room to room (not like a dog with a bone but if we are going to spend time in a certain room) and it will be add a sparkling touch to it. You can even hang chocolates from it!

I have a similar one (it isn’t as as nice), currently housing my bracelets! (Small boy not for sale!)

Pinecone Wreath Was £40 Now £20

If you don’t have time to make a wreath and a fresh one is above budget, you will be able to resurrect this upmarket pinecone wreath every year.

It’s pretty classic so to brighten it up you could add your own berry’s, holly or even a battery powered pack of fairy lights.

I made one this year – at a workshop! The feathers have certainly amused the kids, which wasn’t actually intended.

I would like my banisters to look like a photo from Pinterest but with the amount of use they get, the decorations like the below would stay white for about two days.

Why not mix it up and draw the eye up with a light up reindeer head at the top of the stairs!

This is how I would like to wrap my presents, time and money permitting.

However, not hugely exciting for the kids.

This Festive Dog Wrapping Paper is good compromise between super smart and paper thin wrapping paper with garish pics all over it.

Add some red raffia bows and voila, stylish and fun!

Cinnamon and Ginger Diffuser Was £15 Now £7

Nothing beats a good Christmassy smell to get you in the mood and remove the smell of damp gloves. This is yummy for both adults and kids.

I hope this has given you some good ideas. Invest in some decorations now if you want to add an extra touch, especially if you have the inlays coming for Christmas lunch!

On a slightly less superficial note, stay calm and remember…

Lots of love

Lucinda xx

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Fashion Spotlight

Up Close With Dolly Alderton

When my parents discussed certain journalists and were able to recall who wrote which columns over their corn flakes, I was always impressed as I didn’t even know what the newsreaders were called, let alone a ‘faceless’ writer. Fast forward 10 years, when I was trying to feel like an adult in my twenties (the specific age escapes me – it was all one big blur) finding a few journalists to follow seemed like a grown-up thing to do, that might help me feel like an adult.

India Knight, Bryony Gordon and Dolly Alderton were very easy to ‘get into’ with their self-deprecating humour and easy way and are subsequently still the names I drop when I want to look well-read. (Yes, I know I am sad!)

Claudia Winkleman’s column in the Stella Magazine is also up there…

When I spied Dolly at a Boden drinks last month on the Kings Road, I shamelessly beelined over to her and introduced myself. (It didn’t take long, not in a Madonna – I only need one name as everyone knows me kind of way – but as in my bio doesn’t take long)

After a brief natter, I cut to cut to the chase and asked if I could interview her for my Up Close series.

It was a ‘yes’, of course!

I feel like I have bagged a mega slebrity…

Dolly is a journalist, an entertainer with her hilarious podcast The High Low with Pandora Sykes (which you must download now) and an incredible editor of newsy & informative newsletter that I DEVOUR as soon as it lands in my inbox. Unfortunately, it’s no longer running, but you can read the archives here.

The latest string to her bow is her newly written book ‘Everything I Know About Love‘. Having followed her tales during adulthood, I know it will be gripping, touching and a hugely witty read.

“I loved it so much, I wanted it to go on forever, Dolly Alderton is so gifted at making people care. A rare talent”

– Marian Keyes

If it’s good enough for Marian, it’s good enough for me!

So, let’s crack on and delve into Dolly World…

What’s the latest string to your bow?

My first book, Everything I Know About Love, is published in February 2018 and I’m also in the process of trying to adapt the story for TV.

(Umm pick me – please can I have a walk-on part Dolly?)

What’s your favourite aspect of your work?

Telling stories.

Fashion style?

Christ, I have no idea. I love the 60s. But then I also love bed socks.

Looking to update your wardrobe, buy a gift or treat yourself?

You will find a gorgeous range of jewellery, accessories and clothes on TLM Edit, all hand-picked by The London Mummy.

3 small clothing brands

They aren’t small, but my favourite more boutique-y brands are Rixo, Ganni, Coco Fennell, Stine Goya and Lily and Lionel (sells stunning scarves)

Top 3 go-to items in your wardrobe when you are in a rush

A Boden Margot jumper, skinny indigo jeans, a big woollen scarf.

3 items that make you feel a million dollars

A sharp black blazer, a LBD, a woollen mini skirt with knee-high boots.

1 item that everyone asks where you got it from

Either of my afghan coats (both Ebay)

Biggest purchase mistake ever

The year 2009 in which I only wore bodycon dresses.

Best return of investment on an item

Mulberry handbag.

Boots or trainers

Boots. I live in boots. I only wear trainers when I run.

3 Instagram accounts you seek out

Luke Edward Hall, Every Outfit on SATC, and writer & illustrator Mari Andrew.

Interior style

Eclectic, feminine and warm are what I aim for.

Interior tip

Be creative. Get things upholstered, have textiles and curtains copied by a seamstress, try painting canvases yourself, use interesting materials and papers for mounting pictures, make your own headboard using your favourite fabric. It’s satisfying and it saves so much money.

Barefaced or full face?

I truly love both.

Best beauty buy on the market

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream and Sisley’s Black Rose Face Mask

3 items in your make up bag

Loreal lash architect mascara
Clarins Instant Concealer
Estee Lauder Pure Colour Envy Lipstick in Desirable

Hair tip

If your hair is fine and shapeless, try a fringe.

Life-saving hair product

Dryspun Texture Spray by Bumble and Bumble – the best root volumising that isn’t heavy.

Silver or gold jewellery?

Gold

Favourite Jewellery brand

I very rarely wear jewellery, I don’t know why.

You should!! Have you seen TLM Edit? 🙂

Keep fit activity

I’ve just got into pilates, a decade later than everyone else

Romantic restaurant

I was pretty wooed in Le Grand Colbert in Paris.

Last supper

Spaghetti Vongole.

Great choice…

Hangover cure

Sparkling water, carbohydrates, a hot bath with Olverum oil, sex…

Beach or pool

Beach. I adore swimming in the sea and hate chlorinated pools. Not least because they turn my hair green.

Swimsuit or bikini

One-pieces are so chic but I always end up in a naff bikini.

What do you do to relax?

Read, bathe, make quiche, eat cheese, walk, wild-swim, play guitar, drink too much wine.

All-time favourite film

When Harry Met Sally. Or The Apartment.

Last book you read

Valley of The Dolls

Favourite box set

Transparent

The song you pelt out in the car

I don’t drive but you’ll hear me singing Carly Simon in the shower most mornings.

Evocative smell

Tomato vines (was overjoyed to find recently that Daylesford sell a candle of this exact fragrance)

3 favourite websites for passing time

What tests your patience?

Slow walkers and pushy salespeople on high commission (I was one once, I know their game)

3 words to describe yourself

Tall introverted extrovert.

I have an inkling we have a lot more to hear of Ms Alderton and I can’t wait to follow (#stalk) her. I cannot wait to read her new book… It’s on my Christmas List!

Ps. I have never written about a journalist/writer/author and I am very conscious of my ‘noviceness’, so excuse the typos – I am too excited to publish this to keep checking!

Visit Dollyalderton.com

Nov 2020: An update

Since this interview, I’m excited to announce that Dolly has released her latest novel, Ghosts. Click here to buy it now.

For more interviews, click here.

Looking for something else? Take a peek at my ultimate directory for the best parent, style and business recommendations.

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Gift Guides

Small Business Gift Guide : Babies, Boys & Girls

Wow, this is a biggy! Apologies that it is all in one, but personally I started to bore myself with the individual gift guides I did last year, especially after the backlash of my Nanny/Au Pair Gift Guide – can you remember? Gawd I was only suggesting a few ideas and a few nannies and au pairs were not happy with my suggestions. SORRY! Anyway, kids won’t see this so they can’t complain!!

BABIES

Grey Horse Romper from Bumble & Ava £39

The colours and design on this romper are so unusual. I love the velvet trim too. Super smart.

Rabbit Night Light from Djeco £37

This beats a snow globe from the Piccadilly Tourist shops! It has a nightlight too so sure t keep your little one calm and transfixed.

Al Paca Hat from Oeuf NYC £57

Be warned, your baby would be coo’ed at in the street and potentially everyone would want to stroke them!!

Ugly Duckling Music Toy from Elodie Details £27

This beats a mobile from the high street. I’m always a sucker for a bit of netting and it’s not often you can have white around a weaning baby, but when it is out of touch – go to town!

Pink Heart Collared Sleeping Bag from Willa & The Bear £55

Peter Pan eat your heart out! This is adorable. I wouldn’t ever take it off them. Also comes in dusty blue.

GIRLS

Bundle Bed £199

Whenever one of the kids has to sleep on our bedroom floor, we get out the bundle bed (whilst breaking up the fight over whose turn it it) Easy to transport, unpack, wash and most importantly very comfortable – it is great for sleep overs and camping. We love ours!!

Wildlife Bumper Pack by Shrinkles £11

Can you remember putting old crisp packets in the oven and watching them shrink down? Was such a thrill. Well Shrinkles do this properly and you can buy all sorts of themes and then make them into key rings, clips and badges to name a few. A great activity for the day after Boxing Day!

Unicorn Hair Clips from Glammrags £8

How cute are these. These would go down well in a lot of young girls stocking. Glammrags also have a huge range of girly hair and jewellery goodies. The cat head bands are also darn brilliant.

Curiosity Box Subscription

Perfect for inquisitive 6-11 year olds each monthly box has a different theme to support your childs learning. Help for parents to help your kids too so you won’t be shown up!

Pom Pom & Tassel Key Ring £14 from TLM Edit

Perfect to liven up that book bag… Just don’t nick it!

Glitter Lips from Harry & Holly £12.50

Now, doesn’t this look fun. Perfect for a blossoming teen who dopant warrant a trip to Soace NK quite yet. Even if you end up using it yourself. Harry & Holly is a great website for your teen or tween girl btw…

‘Mummy’ Pouches from Mimosa Baby £15

Called Mummy but I know a few little ladies who would love one of these to hold all their hair clips! Choose your letter and Liberty fabric… Also comes in Natural!

Chat Malo -Le Petit Hibou £55

These sweatshirts that are affiliated with the beautiful New Kings Road shop Cuckoo Hibou are understated and very cool. In navy and grey.

Puff Sleeve Dress from Coco Belle £38

Coco Belle is the only place I will go for my (my daughters) smocked dresses. They are all so beautiful and the fabrics and colours are lovely. The website is set out so well so you can shop by age. This is under age 6 but be quick as they don’t hang around for long – not at that price!

Crossley Gold & Pink Record Player £89

Ok, not sure I would even know where to find a vinyl record that mu daughter would want to play, but this is such a gorgeous set, if you are a hip family who does have a selection of vinyls – this would be mega – and she could carry it around.

BOYS

Gravity Powered Speed Track from £20

Started by husband and wife team, this is a genius race track that doesn’t require batteries and you can take anywhere. We have a double track and it is great to have races on the sitting room floor without having to build it!!!

Mega Fort Kit by Stick Lets £36

If your kids are into make dens – these will give you piece of mind. Secure the sticks together with these and the den will be as sturdy as a rock!

Emperor Pyjamas from Three North Stars £26.95

As a mum of three boys who wasn’t enamoured by cartoon print or legging style pyjamas that are all over the high street, Kim decided to design and make her own. Inspired by the pyjamas that she wore when growing up in Laos, the cotton linen mix is super soft and there are no fiddly buttons. I love them! Also come in blue and cream.

Large Blue Star Personalised Pencil Case from Little Letterman £15

Love a star and this good sized pencil case will be able to house both the protractor and calculator (joke, not sure how they manage without a calculator!)

52 Dates from Roll Out History £20

Border your kids room with this wonderful informative self adhesive history timeline. For more info read my review here.

Budding Builder Box from Kid K’Nex £27.99

Totally ageless, this mega box of tricks keeps my 3-7 year olds very happy. Enough bits to make many funny combination of ‘aliens’ – it is one box that will be sticking around for a long time! Great for fine motor skills and imagination too.

Socker Boppers from Five Boys Clothing £10

It was hard to choose one gift off this website as it is packed with cloths and gifts for boys. Well worth a look if you want a one stop shop.

Star Wash Bag from Catapult Clothing £20

Made from up cycled bouncy castle fabric, this wash bag is bright, fun and boy proof. Catapult also sells gorgeous T Shirts…

Jackson Rocket Print Sweat from Angel & Rocket £25

Their signature sweat with the reflective Rocket logo. Perfect for any busy boy as it is super soft and allows my busy boy to move around like a box of frogs without feeling restricted.

Personalised Comic Hero Print from Wall Circus £36

Bright and fun, would be a great addition to any boys bedroom.

Lace Up Suede Desert Boots from Willa Beans £34

You can also buy extra bright colour laces for £1.50!

Oarsum Batgammon Board. £95

Handmade in England, this is a unique backgammon set with a naval twist. Made from recycled sailcloth.

Foooty Ball Kit from Three Boys Rock £11.95

Is it a football? A rugby ball? A frisbee? Or more?
The answer is all of the above. Connect the templates together to create a myriad of alternatives. Easy to connect together, this Dutch concept is a sure winner for holidays, trips to the park and more. Available in blue, red, green and yellow.

Earphone Wrap Wristband £19

The unique patented design of Wraps means you can now wear your earphones on your wrist when you’re not using them – ideal for cycling to and from the gym, heading out for the day and for anyone who doesn’t carry a handbag!

Pineapple Trunks from Big Cat Clothing £30

I couldn’t decide which to include as there are so many funky prints. Really reasonable and they have matching Dad ones!

There must be something in here that you haven’t seen before? If there is a new website or product you think London Mummy readers would like, please let me know!

Lots of love

Lucinda xx

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Big Fashion Food Gift Guides

Small Business Gift Guide : Women

General as this title may sound, I promise there is something for all the women you are buying for in this post. Whether it is Granny who has everything, an Auntie who you don’t know what she likes or you are a guy reading this for wifey ideas, I have it covered. Lots of women at the recent fairs I was at, told me that they buy their own presents and then give them to the husband to wrap. That is RUBBISH guys. If you are reading this, one thing you can’t do wrong at Christmas is buying a gift for your other half that they haven’t asked for! (as long as you also get the item they have asked for!) It will pay dividends and everyone will be happy!

Below are some wonderful ideas that I have been saving in a Christmas 2017 file since January, so let’s go…

FOR THE FASHIONISTA

Rose Gold Monmatre Watch from Auree Jewellery £130

I am currently running competition to win this stunning watch over on Instagram but if you can’t wait for the results (Friday night) head over to Auree with code AUREEANGEL2 for 15% off all watches. Be warned, you will also be sucked in by the stunning jewellery too.

Bucket Bag with Detachable Aztec Strap from TLM Edit £55

Gorgeous bucket bag. Comes with plain strap too and smal zip up purse as well as detachable Aztec strap. Roomy and a perfect size to carry a laptop amongst other things!

Fur Cross Body Bag from TLM Edit £55

It speaks for itself. If the recipient is bold, bright, confident and likes to be different, this across body bag is for them.

Red Lips Tee from Bricks & Stitches £25

Worn with a blazer and jeans, this is cool. Also comes in aubergine lips or gold on black. Lush.

Liberty Initial Sweatshirt from Mary & The Guys £36

I love a bit of personalisation and coupled with Liberty print and a comfortable sweater, its quids in. Order now though for personalisation!

Gold Diamante Hoops from TLM Edit £22

No mistaking that hoops are in at the moment and with cubic zirconia encrusted throughout, it would be hard for the recipient not to appreciate these gorgeous earrings.

Personalised Family Tote in Navy & Neon from Marloe London £65

Speaking of personalisation, this bag from Marloe is so useful, sturdy and smart. The navy makes it work int eh winter and the neon trim makes it perfect for the summer too. Win win!

Velvet Cactus Wallet from TLM Edit £32

Super soft and sturdy wallet that’s a bit different from the leather ones that are doing the rounds at the moment.

Pony & Gold Foldover Clutch from Sarah Bailey £175

Sarah’s clutches are a magpie’s heaven. I love the silver and pink on this one…

My Year Sweatshirt from On The Rise £70

If you think your recipient is proud of the year they were born this is a pretty cool present. Choose the colour sweat and the colour date.

Personalised Polo Belt from pampeano £65

I was the lucky recipient of one of these last year and despite wearing it alot, it is still as good as new. Super smart and loads of colours and fabrics to choose from too.

Leather & Glitter Cuff from The Alex Edit £25

Filled with gorgeous sparkly goodies, my pick from The Alex Edit this Christmas is one of her fab cuffs.

Electric Blue & Leopard Print Messenger Bag £80

So funky, I can’t handle it. Have you ever seen anything like it? Definitely not for the retiring amongst us!

Slogan Sweat from FWP by Rae at The Alex Edit £45

The newest top from FWP BY Rae is another must-have. Thicker than the best-selling Premier Cru tops, these are incredibly soft and so comfortable to wear (the cut is fabulous), the logo references Cru Bourgeois wines from the Medoc region of Bordeaux that didn’t quite make the official Classé certification of 1855.

4 in 1 Bracelet from TLM Edit £30

If you have ea rock chick who wants to pack a punch with her wrist candy, this bracelet is for her. Pick and choose which ones to wear, but if you are like me- where all at the same time!

FOR THE STATIONARY LOVER

A Year of Cards from Ellie Good Illustrations

Never be caught out by the ‘Oh, sxxt, it’s tomorrow’ card-shopping-panic ever again! Lasting you a whole year this economical pack of 40 greetings cards includes 17 different designs for as many different events. The cards have been lovingly illustrated, printed on recycled card and are a snip at only 88p each. Envelopes are included. This is absolutely genius – I love them and every busy women in the world should have a box.

Insect Note Cards Set from Ele Grafton

These beautifully drawn insect cards are perfect to write a quick thank you note on and would make a lovely stocking filler.

Tinkerlink Phone Cover from Giftpop from £32.50

These have swarmed Instagram this year. Super fun and with the ability to choose your own finish, colour and charm – each one is unique – unless you are really unlucky!

Letter Writing Set by Anna Wright £12.50

Encourage old school letter writing with this lovely poppyhead paper and envelope set.

FOR THE BEAUTY LOVER

El&So Luxury Face Care Gift Set £27

Take it from me, El&So works. It gently takes off the rubbish accumulated on your face from the day and rehydrates and nourishes. I love it and highly recommend it. Once you try it, you will become hooked and it is so mice to think this is made by hand.

LANAIBLO Personalised Professional Hairdryer £99

2400 Watt is a high power hair dryer putting professional power in the hands of you with a super fast drying ability. Ionic Technology gives a benefit of this is that the cuticle of your hair becomes smooth, giving you a gloriously smooth finish.

Radiance Boost Duo from Caudalie £45

With dry weather and dehydrating activities (cough cough) this December, this would be a very welcome present for someone who likes looking after their skin.

FOR THE FOODIE

Sea Salted Caramels from Caragh Chocolates £13.99

Nestled between Guernsey and Jersey, Caragh make all their chocolates by hand, in their kitchen surrounded by breathtaking vistas, coastal paths and secret bays. The chocolates are exquisite – buy yourself a box too. Just because…

Make Me Blush Rose £13.99

Swimwear designer Veronica joked to her wine-producing Italian father that the only way she’d get into the wine business is if he made her a Rosé – so he did. This sophisticated style from Piemonte, Italy is good fun – I can certainly imagine enjoying a bottle (or two) with the girls next time the sun is shining or not shining – it doesn’t matter. The handy bottle top makes this a great option for picnics too.

FOR THE HOUSE PROUD

Lumitrix Gift Box starts from £25

Everyone loves a piece of art – but best to let them choose it. A beautifully presented gift box from Lumutrix would be a wonderful gift to enable freedom of choice to your recipient. There are so many wonderful photographic prints to choose from, that may be the hard choice!

Home Declutter Kit by Helen Sanderson £39

Helen’s Home Declutter Kit offers a simple, easy way to detox your living space and clear clutter from your life – fast! If you’re into healthy living you’ll be familiar with the notion of detoxing or purging the body, so consider this a handy tool to help you do the same on the home front.

Brilliant if the recipient needs a little nudge in the right direction!

Liberty Print Pillow Cases from Poppy & Honesty £57 for a pair

So pretty and all handmade to an excellent seamstress with fab taste. I love these – they would make a spare room.

Glad Tidings Scented Candle from Tussie Mussie £32

It was hard to choose which candle to include as they all smell delicious but seeing as it is Christmas this one seems most appropriate, although if you are buying for a loved one ‘Love Story’ would be lovely too. All handmade by Natasha at her home, they are lovingly made and packaged beautifully.

I hope this has given you some ideas. Please let me know if you have any other recommendations!

Lots of love

Lucinda x

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Gift Guides

Small Business Gift Guide : Men

After handing over the realms of my Gift Guide for Godchildren last month, I thought why not ask another small business owner to guest post a different group. Patrick who started the fun and upmarket mens lifestyle clothing brand Reef Knots, after being made redundant from his job in the City – two days before his wife had twins (!), is taking the helm today. It is a fantastic website to cater for men of all ages and styles. I love the funky fabrics he uses!

So, let’s start with a few ideas from Reef Knots… Take it away Patrick!

Boats & Sharks Silk Tie £69

Men that wear pink, tend to like it and it is the perfect accompaniment to a light blue shirt. This tie was recently featured the Vogue Christmas gift guide for men and comes in six different colourways

Flamingo Turquoise Silk Tie £69

Everyone seems to love flamingos and men seem to be no exception. This is our Christmas best-seller (and selling out fast!) so you know you’re on trend. The tail of the tie features hammerhead sharks, so very suitable for any lawyers or boardroom sharks!

Lobster Swim Shorts £79

Lobsters are our perfect subject matter because they represent both the ocean and luxury.

These swim shorts have been our fastest selling product this year and are already sold out in the navy colourway. These will all be gone soon too!

Blue Stripe Oxford Shirt £59

A classic shirt with a contemporary twist. All our shirts feature a flattering (slightly tapered) fit, Oxford weight cotton, and contrast colour detailing within the collars and cuffs. Also available with button down collar, making them the perfect shirts for both the office and the weekend.

Redcurrent Chunky Socks £13.50

All our socks are Made in England and feature our signature green heals and toes. Chunky and lightweight knits available. Mix-and-match any 3 pairs in a gift box for £35, or £13.50 each. The perfect stocking filler.

And from other businesses…

Slim Red Credit Card Wallet £59

Sage Brown make beautiful leather goods at reasonable prices. I use this wallet everyday and it’s perfect. Small, smart and holds 6 cards, plus notes.

Cucumber Gin Black Bottle £35

The gin revolution continues and I found these guys during the Spirit of Christmas show at Olympia and picked up a few bottles. A really refreshing tasting gin, which is fast becoming my favourite.

Tom Ford, FxxxxxG Fabulous EXPENSIVE! C £500

This is expensive, but the boldness of the branding gets this one onto the list. Available at Selfridges and Tom Ford Covent Garden (online it’s in dollars so not sure whether they send to UK)

Gertie Backpack £185

Will Bees Bespoke make fantastic quality products and I’ve recently started wearing a backpack everyday for camera gear and laptops etc. Personalised with your initial too! (Order by 18th Dec for personalization)

Liberty Boxer Shorts £20

Sir Plus was a business founded on the principle of using surplus fabric from other manufacturers to produce clothing. These are a classic pair of liberty print Boxer Shorts

Thank you Patrick! Great ideas and lovely to see so many other ‘small’ businesses included (not you Tom Ford 😉 I feel very inspired.

Hope this has inspired and have a great day,

Love

Lucinda x

www.reefknots.com

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