The Handmaids Tale by Margaret Atwood | Book Review 2018

'The Republic of Gilead offers Offred only one option: to breed. If she deviates, she will, like all dissenters, be hanged at the wall or sent out to die slowly of radiation sickness. But even a repressive state cannot obliterate desire - neither Offred's nor that of the two men on which her future hangs'. 

Printed Floral Shift Dress // Outfit Of The Day

Printed Floral Shift Dress // Good morning loves, hope you're having a great day so far. In my outfit post last week {you can read it here}, I was sharing the love for brand new online fashion store, LOTD.com. The brand does an amazing job at offering current, on-trend stylish pieces that won't break the bank - result! The company got in touch and kindly offered the chance to send me a few pieces to try on. Now, you guys know me - dresses are just my thing. Seriously. I must have over a hundred dresses (if not more) hanging in my wardrobe. I wear dresses everyday and always love to add new additions to my collection. I spotted this cute printed floral number out the corner of my eye on the LOTD.com website, and knew it had to go straight in my basket!

All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doer // Book Review 2018

At dusk they pour from the sky. They blow across the ramparts , turn cartwheels over rooftops, flutter into the ravines between houses. Entire streets swirl with the, flashing white against the cobbles. 'Urgent message to the inhabitants of this town', they say. 'Depart immediately to open country'. 

Daniel Wellington Gold Mesh Watch 2018

Daniel Wellington // Hello loves, hope you have been enjoying the summer so far - what crackin' weather we've had lately! I just love it when the sun shines, everyone seems that bit happier and I think everyone looks great with a tan! I've been loving my new Daniel Wellington watch for these hot days - I recently went to a friend's BBQ and another's garden party, and the gold mesh watch was the perfect accessory for both events. 

Pretty In Pink // Outfit of the Day

Pretty in Pink // Hello loves, I'm finally back on track with my outfit posts - and this outfit is actually one of my favourites. You'll probably know by now that I just love everything pink and floral, so this really is a winning combo. I love finding new ways to wear old dresses, and this black and pink one has had a special place in my heart ever since I got it a couple of years ago. It's always given the most flattering shape and the pattern is so lovely - the combination of dusky pink, grey and black is perfecttttt. 

Leopard Print Skirt - Outfit of the Day

Leopard Print Skirt // Happy weekend - hope you've having a great one so far! The weather has finally decided to improve lately and I've been trying desperately to show off the remaining tan that I have from my holiday back in June... I think it's definitely time for another holiday soon! Especially since I spend most of my time stuck behind a computer, sitting at my desk... I am really busy right now getting ready to start a new job (which I'm incredibly excited about), but if I'm being honest, I could do with another holiday - who agrees with me? ;-)

The Pursuit of Love by Nancy Mitford // Book Review 2018

"There is a photograph in existence of Aunt Sadie and her six children sitting round the tea-table at Alconleigh. The table is situated, as it was, is now, and ever shall be, in the hall, in front of a huge open fire of logs. Over the chimney-piece plainly visible in the photograph hangs an entrenching tool, with which, in 1915, Uncle Matthew had whacked to death eight Germans one by one as they crawled out of a dug-out. It is still covered with blood and hairs, an object of fascination to us as children."

Checked Skirt - Outfit of the Day

Checked Skirt // Happy Sunday! I was doing a little clear out last week and came across this old skirt from Topshop. It's been such an old faithful over the years, and it's always great when you discover a piece of clothing you had completely forgotten about! I remember why I love this skirt so much; the elasticated waist makes it one of the comfiest items to wear ever, and subsequently, is great for when I've eaten too much and have a growing food baby... It's also a great skirt to throw on quickly and create a simple outfit like this one. You can't really go wrong with monochrome, am I right? 

Vero Moda Dress // Outfit of the Day

Vero Moda Dress // Hello loves, hope you had a great week. I was searching through my wardrobe one day last week and came across this navy blue dress from Vero Moda. It's the only piece of clothing that I own from the brand, and I remember it was a very spontaneous purchase during the ASOS sale a couple of years ago... I'm really happy to have rediscovered it this week - it's shocking but it's been one of those items that just sits in the wardrobe, still with its original tags. I've no idea why I haven't worn it because it's gorgeous - and yes, it also needs a very good iron - apologies in advance...!

The Muse by Jessie Burton | Book Review 2018

'Not all of us receive the ends that we deserve. Many moments that change a life's course - a conversation with a stranger on a ship, for example - are pure luck. And yet no one writes you a letter, or chooses you as their confessor, without good reason. This is what she taught me: you have to be ready in order to be lucky. You have to put your pieces into play'. 

Daniel Wellington Dapper Sheffield Watch 2018

Daniel Wellington Watches // Happy Sunday loves! I hope you're having a great lazy day, ready to start the week ahead! I'm so excited to show off another snazzy watch from Daniel Wellington - just look at the shine on that! My inner magpie just loves these watches, black and gold is my favourite combo for accessories - seriously, this watch goes with everything. The electric blue dials add a splash of colour, making this a truly unique timepiece. The watch brand have a variety of styles to choose from, including a new shiny golden mesh number that I featured in my last post here. 

Dapper Sheffield Watch | Daniel Wellington

Any Human Heart by William Boyd // Book Review 2018

"Never say you know the last word about any human heart..."

Daniel Wellington Gold Mesh Watch 2018

Daniel Wellington Watches // Hello loves, hope you're having a great Thursday - it's almost the weekend, yay! I'm absolutely delighted to be working with my favourite watch brand again, Daniel Wellington. My first experience of the brand was back in 2015 and we've had a beautiful friendship ever since - I wear my Classy Sheffield watch every single day and it's become my lucky charm, I always feel weird if I forget to wear it.

Classy Petite Melrose Watch | Daniel Wellington

The Girls by Emma Cline // Book Review 2018

"I looked up because of the laughter, and kept looking because of the girls. I noticed their hair first, long and uncombed. Then their jewellery catching the sun. The three of them were far enough away that I saw only the periphery of their features, but it didn't matter - I knew they were different from everyone else in the park..."

Oasis Tropical Dress // Outfit of the Day

Oasis Tropical Dress // You may have noticed but this dress is incredibly similar to one that I showed off quite recently (you can see it here)... I'm no doubt late to the party but I've really fallen in love with this style of dress - it's just so damn comfy. The bell sleeves are a lovely touch and make the dress look so delicate, and this print was too pretty to ignore - it's covered in little, colourful, tropical birds. I paired the dress with a belt but it probably wasn't needed - it actually has a lovely detailed pattern at the waist which is just as nice!

Guide to Stockbridge, Edinburgh - The Village within a City, 2018.

Stockbridge // Situated in the heart of the capital, Stockbridge is a fabulous, colourful area reminiscent of a small village within the hustle and bustle of central Edinburgh. Lined with lovely houses, cobbled streets, independent boutiques and eateries, this really is a treasure trove. As you can tell from the pictures below, Stockbridge is such a photogenic place. Every corner has something to admire, whether it be a glorious park with regal swans, or idyllic front doors that you wish you could live behind. I was fortunate enough to live in Stockbridge for a number of months and wanted to share my pictures with you all today!

Pink Brocade Dress // Outfit of the Day

Pink Brocade // I spotted this pink beauty in the Warehouse super sale last week. I say super sale because items were discounted, and then an additional 20% was taken off - result! I ended up getting this pink brocade number for £12! It was such a great find - not only does the pattern look lovely paired with tights and wee cardigan, but the thick material makes it a really sturdy, durable item that will no doubt last a couple of years. I'm looking forward to wearing this in Winter, I have a feeling it might be quite a cozy one, matched with a thick chunky knit... 

Happy Little Bluebirds by Louise Levene // Book Review 2018

"I'd no idea anyone actually spoke Polish,' the girl was saying. 'Apart from Poles, obviously'. The customs chap looked awfully surprised. 'Whatever on earth made you learn?' She didn't stay for an answer but began shoving her bags alongside Evelyn in the back of the waiting car. 'Budge up'. Evelyn edged along the wide seat and the girl closed the door and leaned forward to instruct the uniformed driver who was wiping his mouth on his handkerchief as he wedged the pungent remains of a sandwich into the glove compartment...."

Warehouse Floral Dress // Outfit of the Day

Warehouse Floral Dress // Hello lovelies, hope you are doing well. I've honestly had, what feels like, the busiest few weeks - the days seem to be flying by and I've hardly had a moment to sit down and get a post written for this wee blog of mine. I suppose it's good when life feels like it's zooming past though, it means that things are exciting and I'm constantly kept busy, which I like. Anyways, I wanted to quickly show you all this new dress from Warehouse. I say 'new' but, you know me, I won this dress on eBay and it's been in my wardrobe a few months now...

The Collector by John Fowles // Book Review 2018

 "I can’t say what it was, the very first time I saw her, I knew she was the only one."

Purple Dress of Dreams // Outfit of the Day

Purple Dress of Dreams // okay, okay, okay, I need to breathe. I know I say this about every dress I own, but seriously, this may be my new all time favourite. I love everything about this dress: the colour; the lace design; the stretch fabric; the sheer sleeves; the scallop edge neckline; the length; and did I mention the gorgeous colour?! It's so lovely it deserves a double mention. Oh, and before I forget, the price tag was also amazing - £4 from eBay. Yes, £4!!! Another reason why I just love searching online for hidden gems like this one. 

My Life in Pictures // Instagram

My Life in Pictures // hello lovelies, hope you are having a great week. I'm sharing an influx of photos from my Instagram account. As you can probably tell, I like to keep things very colourful over there, and love to share things that inspire me throughout the week, whether it's a wonderful bouquet of flowers, some delicious home bakes or an extraordinary looking fruit bowl, haha! :-)

Bella Figura by Kamin Mohammadi // Book Review 2018

“She walks down the street with a spring in her step and a lift to her head. She radiates allure as if followed by a personal spotlight. She is real and walking the streets of every city, town and village in Italy right now. She is the embodiment of Bella Figura and she cuts an elegant dash through our mundane modern world.”

Bella Figura : How to Live, Love and Eat the Italian Way

by Kamin Mohammadi

Boho Grunge Dress // Outfit of the Day

Boho Grunge Dress // Hello lovelies, hope you are having a wonderful weekend so far. The weather has been glorious over the last few days and I’m really hoping that means we’ve put the bad ‘Beast from the East’ behind us – Summer is finally on it’s way (I bet I’ve gone and jinxed that now and we’ll be back to -2 degrees next week…). I love it when the sun shines and we get into the warmer months though – it’s time to pack the thermals away and get back into my summer dresses. This floral number has been in my wardrobe for about five years and it’s always a good one to throw on – I’m amazed it still fits actually…

Circe by Madeline Miller // Released April 19th Bloomsbury Books 2018

"When I was born, the name for what I was did not exist... God, Mortal, Monster, Saviour, Outcast, Destroyer, Witch... Circe".

Lucerne Travel Diary // Switzerland 2018

Lucerne Switzerland Travel Diary // Over the last six months, I've been fortunate enough to travel to Lucerne, a small town in northern Switzerland, three times. In one word, it is idyllic. I've been travelling there for work and although I have not been able to be a 'proper' tourist outside of my working hours, I've still managed to explore the beautiful, historic town. I wanted to share some snapshots with you all and show off the beauty of this hidden treasure. 

Floral Polka Dot Dress // Outfit of the Day

Floral Polka Dot Dress // Morning lovelies, how are you all doing today? I'm particularly happy this Sunday, as I picked up this new dress from my local charity shop. It's by the brand Cameo Rose? I'm sure I've seen it before, maybe in the Topshop concession area? Anyways, it's a lovely wee dress (not so different from the outfit I posted last week) but you know me, absolute sucker for any kind of floral tea dress. I was particularly drawn to the bow tie sleeves - it's a really small detail which actually helps to make the dress quite unique.

Regeneration by Pat Barker // Book Review 2018

"I am making this statement as an act of wilful defiance of military authority, because I believe the war is being deliberately prolonged by those who have the power to end it. 

My Life In Pictures // Instagram

My Life in Pictures // Hello loves, how are you doing? It's been a while since I've shared some Instagram snaps with you all. Even if I go a little quiet on here, you can guarantee I've probably posted on my Instagram account, it's funny that isn't it? Anyways, here's a combination of some yummy treats, pretty flowers and some fabulous home bakes. Also, can you tell that I like coffee?...

Hippie Floral Dress // Outfit of the Day

Hippie Floral Dress // Hello lovelies, happy Sunday! I hope you've had a great weekend so far. Well, here I am again sharing yet another floral dress (shock), but you guys know me, I'm always happy to add a new piece to my wardrobe. This dress was quite a nice find, it cost me £3 on eBay and it's originally from Primark. When it arrived, I was initially unsure as it was much longer than it had looked online, but I'm actually loving the length - I don't really own that many midi length dresses and the inner hippie in me was dancing about when I tried it on for the first time - any piece of clothing that makes me feel like Stevie Nicks is a winner in my eyes...

The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney | Book Review 2018

"Because the three Plumbs had agreed on the phone the previous evening that they should not drink in front of their brother Leo, they were all - unbeknownst to one another - sitting in separate bars in and around Grand Central, savouring a furtive cocktail before lunch".

Black Floral Top // Outfit of the Day

Black Floral Top // Hello lovelies, hope you are all well and surviving the bitter Beast From The East. It's been incredibly atmospheric here in the North East and it's making me feel as though I should be getting the Christmas decorations back out and cranking the Christmas music to high. But instead, it's actually March and we should be getting excited for Mother's Day and Easter and warmer days ahead... please weather, make your mind up!  

Circe by Madeline Miller // Book Review 2018

‘When I was born, the name for what I was did not exist… God, Mortal, Daughter, Monster, Saviour, Outcast, Sister, Lover, Destroyer, Creator, Witch, Mother…. Circe’.

H&M Floral Top // Outfit of the Day

H&M Floral Top // Hello lovelies, hope you are all doing well! I am finally back with an outfit post, after what feels like years! I didn’t manage to take that many pictures over the Christmas period, as I was just so busy with work, and the freezing cold weather certainly didn’t help! It's now February and the weather is still pretty cold to stand outside and take pictures, but I will try and organise a few shoots soon. If you look closely, you may notice that I am standing in front of a Christmas wreath - we actually took these pictures back in December and I've only managed to get round to posting them now - oops! :-)

Valentines Day Gift Inspiration for that Special Someone

Hello loves, hope you are all doing great. It’s been an incredibly busy start to the new year and I can’t quite believe it’s already turned February. All the Christmas and New Year celebrations (and lingering hangovers…) are well and truly out the way and I always look forward to celebrating other exciting holidays that are coming up. Let’s be honest, February is known for one thing, and one thing only: Valentines Day. Love it or Loath it, it’s hard to escape it and whilst some people do hate the commercialisation of the holiday, I actually think it’s a lovely idea to tell the ones you love how much they mean to you (I mean, I know we really should do this all year round but Valentines is always a nice reminder …) and what better way to do that, than with a brand new luxury watch.

Birthday Gift Inspiration

Birthday Inspiration // Hello lovelies, I hope you have had a wonderful Christmas and new year. Can you believe it’s already 2018? I have no idea where the time is going! I have finally emerged from my festive food coma and I'm ready to face the new year head on! It’s always a little daunting though, because for me, January is such a busy month. I’ve always got a lot of marking/ work to catch up on AND it’s also the major birthday month in my family. Not one, not two, not even three but SIX members of my family have their birthdays in January, and let me tell you, it’s a nightmare. Just when I thought all of my Christmas/ December shopping was done and dusted… Oh no, that's right... I need to head back out into the crazy town centre and battle my way through keen shoppers to find some bargains and birthday presents...