A DOSE OF DENIM

I frequently overhear people discussing how much they love or loved being pregnant.  I can't say this has been the case for me and I'd love to hear about your experiences (I'm currently 27 weeks which is around 7 months for those who are not counting them down).  

For me, I've had to give up several of my real loves; Running, Wine and beautiful clothes.  The running has been a real struggle.  I've suffered with Hyperemesis Gravidarum which is a severe case of morning sickness from around 6 weeks and as I result decided it was best to stop running whilst I was pregnant.  

When getting dressed in the morning I have found the biggest area I have missed is my denim!  I am a huge fan of a good boyfit, a straight leg with a raw edge or a skinny paired with a white shirt and blazer for any day of the week.  As it turns out not all maternity jeans are made equal and some are so uncomfortable!  The waistband join can dig in or is too low and falls down.  The fabric stretches on wash one or they can just feel god dam horrid.  I tried a few pairs from High Street brands maternity lines before admitting that maybe I needed to explore a specialised company.  

Isabella Oliver has a beautiful site filled with simple pieces in black and white with a French meets fashion feel.  I stocked up on a few pieces including these dark indigo boyfit jeans with a cuffed cropped hem.  They are a super-soft denim with a comfy waistband and look as good with Converse as they do with a pair of heels.  I literally have not taken them off. When wearing them to the office I have been adding a black polo neck sweater, black suede boots and some statement earrings.  I also ordered a long sleeve fitted navy tee which is the most beautiful quality and the ruched waist is comfy and very flattering.  This must have been through the washing machine a dozen times already and is as good as new.  

If you have been looking for a few pregnancy wardrobe essentials I highly recommend stocking up on a few pieces from Isabella Oliver to get you though.  Take a look at their site here and let me know your thoughts!  I have added a few of my faves below for you to shop.

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GIFTS FOR THE FASHIONISTA

If you crave monochrome and love accessories this is the gift for you!  I just can't get enough of Ice Watches recent collections and the only decision is whether to opt for a pop of colour or a snow white version.  

Their sporty shape make them perfect for friends who adore the laid back athleisure look.  I love styling mine with a dressy outfit such as a blazer and leather skirt.  If you haven't come across this awesome brand before take a look at their site and the beautiful styles available.  Good luck not popping one for yourself in your basket too though!  Check out some of my favourites below including the prettiest rose gold glitter version.

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HOLIDAY STYLING INSPIRED BY VOGUE PARIS

My favourite editorial has published a winning issue for the holiday season.  Vogue Paris December edition has been guest edited by Karl Largerfeld and his muse Lily-Rose Depp and features beautiful monochrome styling, quirky bling and guest appearances from Choupette the Cat.  There are several beautiful shoots in the issue and I strongly recommend picking up a copy for yourself (you can also download a copy on the App store for just a few pounds).   The inspiring shoot 'Une histoire simple' (A simple story) is styled using key items and interesting accessories.  If you haven't yet stocked up on this season's sock this may just inspire you to do so.  

For those of you who still have no idea what to wear for New Years Eve, Christmas Day or that seasonal party I have pulled 4 of my favourite looks from the shoot and searched the best pieces to recreate them.  They are all extremely chic and very easy to wear.  You won't feel like you are waisting your purchasing on items you will never wear again as these beauties are classics.  Lace socks and dramatic earrings look as good with black brogues and jeans as they do with these party looks.  

For this simple Parisian outfit the skinny polo neck is an easy addition and can be worn throughout the Winter and in to Spring.  I love it in tomato red - it adds wow factor to any look.

If you don't yet own this season's leopard print coat now is the time to pick one up.  Perfect for keeping warm over the holidays whether you are throwing over your shoulders or wrapping up with a wide belt.  You will be just as thankful for this piece in 2017.  Just add some sparkle.

Well it wouldn't be Vogue Paris without a LOT of black.  A classic jumpsuit is my go to when I have no idea what to wear.  Just add some lace and pretty accessories.

Tomato red is my colour of choice and I love the contrasting socks and heels styling.  If you only have a few pounds to spend on a new outfit this is the easiest way to update your look.

GIFTS FOR THE BEAUTY LOVER - PART I

I simply adore this time of year.  The parties, the food, the Christmas classics playing on the radio on the drive back from work.  Everything just feels like it has been coated in a sprinkle of glitter.  Picking the perfect gifts for friends and family can be really tricky so in the weeks leading up to Christmas I'm going to be running through a few of my favourites.  

This Beauty Bento Box is first up on my list of must have gifts.  A new addition for Christmas from one of my all time favourite brands, DHC.  I'm sure you have read about them on TNS before but this Japanese brand do skincare like nobody else.  At under £15 this pretty black and pink box is filled with the classics and is perfect for female friends, family or secret Santa recipients.    

Buried in pretty fuchsia tissue twirls you get a generous miniature of the amazing Deep Cleansing Oil, a mini mild facial soap, their beautiful blotting papers and two packs of my FAVE revitalising moisture strips for eyes.  I know, exactly what you need to get through the holiday season right?  These boxes are going to fly so stock up now.  One for them one for yourself?

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