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I know it’s a cliche, but when else in the year are you supposed to wear red, other than Valentine’s Day.  Despite not knowing anyone who actually goes out for supper on this date in February, I am using it as inspiration for todays post. There are so many striking dresses out there with flecks of red and pink in, it’s a great excuse to share them with you.

With Spring around the corner, there is also no point buying another black dress (although I am a big fan of black dresses in the summer, tanned shoulders, bare legs – it’s good look) but why not buy something you can wear now with tights and a jacket that will also work when the weather gets a little balmier?

Ganni Wrap Dress £150

A huge fan of this new label (well, it’s new to me). The prints are bold and the cuts are great.

Bardot Shift Dress with Cut Out Sides £115

I love the shoulders on this neat little dress – the width will make your waist look smaller than it actually is and the cut out sides are subtly sexy.

Isabel Marant Vicky Lace Shirt Dress £395

I am not entirely sure about the stitching across the chest, but as it is Isabel, I am trusting that it looks as good on as it does on the peg. Perhaps for those with smaller chests…

& Other Stories Summer Fiesta Print Dress £89

& Other Stories has some beautiful dresses this season and this one has caught my eye. The pattern and colours are so different and concur up lovely thoughts of rose in the sun.

& Other Stories Ruffle Tie Wrap Dress £79

Pretty ruffles and the mid length that goes up n the middle makes it understatedly sexy.

Warehouse Leopard Print Shirt Dress £46

Va va voom! There won’t be any more messing around in this punchy red leopard print dress.

Masscob Indian Cotton Dress £300

So feminine and ethereal – I want to float about in this on the beach this summer, but I think an advance purchase would work well now, toughened up with a chunky scarf and biker boots.

Mint Velvet Julia Print Kimono Wrap Dress £119

There is a lot of print this season and I am embracing it. The general rule of thumb –   the size of the print should reflect the size of you – small ditsy print on petites and larger prints on stronger frames. Same goes with size of sunglasses, handbags although o add drama, size up one thing!

French Connection Drapey Dress £180

It’s the Vera Wang esque black tie that drew me in to this maxi dress. If it wasn’t quite so expensive, I would be all over this.

Mango Striped Midi Dress £29.99

No round up is complete without a dress from the high street boss – Mango. This dress wouldn’t suit everyone, but if the lines and colours work on your body shape and colouring, it’s a total knockout.

Marks and Spencer Ruched Waist Tunic Dress £65

The triple band on this floaty ruched waist tunic dress is  great disguise for Christmas bellies if you still haven’t shed it and the long arms are great for those that haven’t quite had that much needed  kiss of colour.

So, do you have any plans for Valentine’s Day? I think it will be Silent Witness and a takeaway for us, as we are having our first night away in about 2 years the following weekend.

Do I sound excited?

Have a lovely week and don’t forget – keep it pink or red!

xx

After the huge excitement of Meghan’s foray into the British establishment – Marks and Spencer’s that is, not Royal Family – when she wore THAT jumper, I thought I would write a post on what else Meghan would, could and should buy from Marks and Spencer’s current range.

For those you who thought they had missed out on the black bell sleeve jumper – it is still in stock however only in size 16’s. If that’s your size, buy a piece of history before it sells out!

WHAT’S HER STYLE?

Ms Markle pretty much sticks to a simple colour palette of black, white, beige (camel, winter white you het the picture) and reds and burgundy’s.

She cleverly reflects her own colouring in her clothes choices and favours dark, bright and tonal clothing.

She likes to accentuate her waist and upsize one accessory per outfit whether handbag, glasses or scarf.

One thing she always wears in front of the camera is a dazzling smile!

COATS

Since the engagement, it is evident that she loves a smart coat, nipped in at the waist and big lapels.

This Wool Rich Single Breasted Coat is only £79 and comes in dark green, burgundy and navy.  I wonder if the resemblance of the model to MM is a coincidence or cleverly thought through?

THE CLASSIC SHIRT 

Meghan looks fabulous in a classic white shirt. Well doesn’t everyone. If you wash it separately, you will get more than one wear out of it, as long as you avoid kids tea time.

The Pure Cotton Long Sleeve White Cotton Shirt from M and S is a classic shirt with no embroidery or exaggerated detail. At £35 a pop you could stock up.

Whilst we are on the white shirt, blue jeans look – I can see Meghan in these Sculpt and Lift (not that she needs it!) Roma Rise Skinny Leg Jeans!  The cropped tight leg is a classic that will never go out of fashion.

SCARVES

Meghan loves a chunky scarf and she usually keeps it the same colour as her coat. This is a great tactic for giving the illusion of length as the eye is drawn up and down and never horizontally by a change in colour.

This brushed scarf is two tone is similar to the one Meghan wore in Wales and would go with both light and dark coats.

HANDBAGS

Like the Queen, Meghan is a Tote girl through and through.  She isn’t scared of a bit of colour either.

I can see being drawn to this Green Faux Leather Tote Bag with Removable Clutch in the Spring, can’t you?

SHOES 

Meghan loves an understated tonal heel with a few subtle details like these ones she wore for official engagement photos.

I think she would LOVE these Ginger Slingbacks (appropriately named) from Marks and Spencer new season. The bow is super cute and girly and the colour will suit her no doubt tanned legs when it gets warmer.

She also clearly likes the colour as per this cute hat she wore to church on Christmas day!

Whilst we are onto hats, as she will be having to wear quite a few here on in, this hat below would be a versatile addition to her Royal wardrobe.

Dress up, dress down and even pull forward if you want to be a bit anonymous.

I love seeing Meghan mix Hollywood glamour with more regal traditional attire. One thing is for sure, she will always keep us guessing.

Next up will be THE DRESS. Who will design it, what style and shape, colours, flowers, bridesmaids oh I could on – and will in my next Meghan post!!

Have a happy Monday xx

I have skirted around the sales, only glancing at items that they have directly come into my eye line – namely through Facebook’s clever advertising or friends bargain buys on Instagram. However, kids are back at school and it’s time for me to go in, headfirst, with sharp elbows, a clear mind and a long term view.

These are my rules –

• Will I wear it a minimum of 20 times?
• If for now, will it also work next winter?
• If for the summer, will I still like it in the Summer?

If I get three yes’s – it’s justified!

So, who is with me?

Now and Next Winter 

Warehouse Animal Print Coat Was £96 Now £56

Whether leopard will be the hit next winter that it was this winter – in my eyes, it is a classic print and style that will last here on in. If you prefer a darker print, this classic fit is fabulous and would as good dressed down with jeans and trainers as it would dressed smartly.

Jigsaw Black Cashmere Roll Neck Was £199 Now £159 

You can’t go wrong with a black roll neck. Since the temperatures have plummeted I have been wishing for one in my wardrobe, so this will be a welcome addition that I know will get huge ROI (Return of investment…)

Jolie Moi Crepe Maxi Skirt Was £65 Now £55

I am just getting into long skirts (especially after Christmas… feeling the lack of self control) and love this Jolie Moi Crepe skirt. It also comes in pale pink and blue that would be so pretty in the summer months.

Gola Red Harrier Trainers Were £60 Now £35 

To get a pair of Gola trainers  for £35 is major and makes me want to stock up on every colour. They are comfortable and cool.

Miss KG Ankle Boots Were £119 Now £89 

This style has basically been the boot of 2017 and I don’t actually care if they look outdated next winter as am such a magpie and if it has studs on  – it will always have my backing.

Spring 

Mint Velvet Daydreamer Longline Shirt Was £79 Now £39 

A throw on classic white shirt with a modern twist (subtle Daydreamer logo) and long enough to cover the builders bum or equally tuck it in for a tidier look.

Gorgeous and such a bargain!

Karen Millen Ruffle Trim Blouse Was £145 Now £76 

Ruffles are de rigour in 2018 too, so if you know this style suits you, make the most of the sales – there are a lot of ruffle blouse’s about.

I love them!

Maison Di Nimes Navy Blouse Was £45 Now £20

This top is a no brainer. Great if you want help to emphasise a smaller chest! (In other words – not for larger chests – that seam is dangerous!)

Mint Velvet Newport Dark Khaki Jeans were £79 Now £59 

As a huge fan of Mint Velvet jeans, I fancy diversifying from my normal black with this dark khaki colour that would bring me nicely into spring without baring my legs until they have a bit of colour on them!

Miss KG Loui Trainers were £69 Now £49 

Glitter. Silver. Trainers. A lot of love for these beauties.

Miss KG Taupe Heeled Boots Were £99 Now £70 

Another classic shape that has been hugely popular. I don’t see it going anywhere (it’s all about cowboy boots in 2018 and these are as close as I will get to that trend – please hold me to it!)

Gola Pink Trainers Were £60 Now £35

Gulp. Sold to the crazy lady with a pink fetish.

Summer 

Seafolly White Metallic Kaftan Was £60 Now£35 

Who doesn’t need a white kaftan at the end of your holiday? This shape is a classic and the pattern makes it slightly different.

Warehouse Cherry T Shirt Was £24 Now £15 

One thing I do have, is the foresight to remember rushed mornings in the summer when you a dress is inappropriate and my T shirts are all dirty. I am going to hedge my bets and buy this believing that cherry’s will neither be too fashionable or so 2017. And those sleeves!!

Tres cute  with cropped tight blue jeans and red espadrilles.

Kanna Dallas Lace Up Espadrilles Were £95 Now £48 

The fashion set have been wearing espadrille lace ups for a while but they will be going mainstream this summer. Buy this now so with the first flash of some sun, you can don these at the school gates.

Vince Camuto Mappen Espadrilles Were £115 Now £39

If you prefer to avoid laces in the summer (understandable) you can’t go wrong with these pale pink platform espadrilles. Not only will the pale colour elongate your ankle the extra height will lengthen your pins.

Hope this has helped draw out some gems in amongst the sea of sale items that are surrounding us at the moment.

Stay tuned, there is more to come…

Have a great day

Love
Lucinda xx

One of my preferred past times is checking out the ‘New In’ sections of websites. It is that feeling of finding out something first. Before the masses. If you haven’t tried it before, I highly recommend it. (Said only slightly tongue in cheek…)  In this case, the masses will find out, so I wanted to share it with you whilst they are still trawling though the sale rails. Let’s skip that topic (for now) and check out three items Marks and Spencer have pulled out the bag in their ‘New In’ section that will smarten you up in January.

Oh and did I mention. They have every size. AT THE MOMENT.

Raspberry Open Front Coat £49.50

The price. Low. The cut. thumbs up. Good length. But AWESOME colour. Even if this colour doesn’t scientifically suit you (I studied colour analysis and it really is scientific – one day I will get around to sharing it or even better doing it again!)it is so pretty and feminine and DIFFERENT.

Cotton Rich A Line Skirt With Belt £45

Even looking at the skirt makes me feel slim. I love the wide built-in belt. The colour is also versatile.  Heels, boots or even trainers (if you are cool enough to pull THAT look off)

Wool Blend Single Breasted Blazer £99

I am actually going to make sure I buy this before I publish this post as it would be just my luck that it sells out as quickly as I think it will. I have been looking for a blazer to ‘smarten me up’ (as the artful dodger would say) and I think this is it. Nipped in waist. Slight exaggerated shoulders (although 2018 his set to be a mass return to shoulder pads and massive puff sleeves so maybe its a bit subtle!)

Gems aren’t they.

I am so over my pjs, frizzy hair, eating chocolate for breakfast. Yes it was nice. It was fun. But I can’t wait to get my nails done and pull onside new threads. And this blazer it will be!

xxx

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

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