Fashion

April Favourites

Hollie EdmeadesLeave a comment

I really wanted to write another favourites post this month, my January favourites feels like it was only yesterday (that’s my excuse for having missed February and March anyway) and a few things really stood out to me this month. Keep reading for a little bit of beauty, a little bit of practical fashion and a quick ‘just to let you know I’ve been back at the gym’ moment.

VIEVE

I did a not-so-little order from VIEVE this month and I’m so glad I did. I was good and held off on ordering the Sunset Blushes as soon as they launched but I finally gave in this month. I ordered the shade Piazza and I haven’t put it down since, so clearly the lesson here is to never have self control and buy the makeup – agreed?

Sunset Blush in Piazza ~ £23
Eye Wand in Mahogany ~ £21
Modern Matte Lipstick in Comin’ In Haute ~ £19

The newest launch from VIEVE is their Eye Wands, I was looking forward to these arriving but I didn’t realise how much of a staple they would become for me. They’re so blendable and really are a one-and-done product, I’ve been using the shades Camel and Mahogany either together or alone all over the lid in the mornings before work. They also don’t fade in the slightest, I use Mahogany as a faux liner quite often and it sticks around all day.

Finally, I just had to add another shade of the Modern Matte Lipsticks to my order. The shade Comin’ In Haute is a deep peach that walks the line really well between not being too warm or too cool. My thoughts on the formula haven’t changed: still super moisturising and the perfect balance between comfort and longevity. I’m also still in love with Vieve and Power Suit and wearing them all the time!

Read more about VIEVE

VIEVE: My New Muse

Jamie Genevieve has fast become my favourite makeup artist to follow. Her talent is undeniable but the thing that draws me in is the love she has for what she does. So of course when I heard she was launching her very own brand I…

Keep reading

Wandavision

I’m not the most insane Marvel fan in the world, I saw Infinity War and End Game but I’m not going to pretend I followed it all… However, I had heard such good things about Wandavision that I thought I would at least enjoy watching it even if I didn’t understand all of the Easter eggs! I had so much fun watching this and totally captivated by Wanda and Vision in their fairytale at the beginning which meant I was super invested once it all started to go off the rails. The whole cast was amazing and the writing was incredible – I full on cried at the end! I was so enjoyable to watch and made me really intrigued to see what they’re going to do next with Wanda.

Clarkes Kaylin85 T-Bar Black Leather heels ~ £75

New shoes

New shoes are always exciting but these are a real stand out because since I bought these I have barely worn anything else since. I have been trying to find some comfortable but not frumpy-looking heels for work for the longest time until I finally looked on Clarkes and found what I was looking for.

These t-bar shoes were just the height I was looking for and the heel looked good and chunky. More importantly, I couldn’t think of many outfits I couldn’t wear them with so I was sold. I actually picked these up on Very as I wanted black leather and Clarkes only had suede, so relieved I checked Very first otherwise I think I would still be looking for something! I’m so happy I took the plunge on these, they were worth every penny and are so comfortable for walking around the office. I have been walking in recently so I just pop these in the top of my bag and switch out my trainers when I arrive. A practical favourite that really doesn’t seem exiting but I’m thrilled with these!

Being more active

The gyms opening up again got me motivated to get more active again and I’ve definitely been doing more exercise. I went back to the gym in the middle of the month and I enjoyed it much more than I thought I would. I’m a bit rubbish in the gym, I don’t usually know what to do with myself and I want to be doing more than I can but I find the weights quite intimidating! Despite this, on my visits since lockdown I was often doing more than I had done before which was a really good feeling. I also worked out a little routine for myself that gives me a much better chance at a successful session: 10 minutes of interval cardio, around 30 minutes of strength training and a good 10 minute yoga-style vinyasa stretch to finish off.

However, the way I have been most active is in walking to work. Since returning to the office I have walked almost everyday, it’s a nice 20 minutes through the park and gives me a nice start to the day. I don’t really need to leave much earlier than normal and I often have a nice hot drink and a podcast to keep me company. I have been loving re-listening to Power Corrupts and have been enjoying British Scandal, they’re are both super interesting shows. On the other end of the spectrum re-listening to My Dad Wrote A Porno is one of the best ways to start my day, even if I do look like a nutter howling with laughter at on my own at 8am!

I love talking about things I like that it makes me take stock of what I’ve been getting the most use out of. Have you got any favourites from the past month?

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January Favourites

Hollie EdmeadesLeave a comment

I love a favourites post. So many products and trends get spoken about online so I feel like a favourites post is the best way to see what people really love, not just what they tried once and liked at the time. This is unlikely to be a monthly thing because I wouldn’t want to force it, but when I have that epiphany and things naturally stand out as something I’ve been loving that’s when I know a favourites is overdue. I hope you like these kinds of posts as much as I do, and keep on reading to see what I’ve been loving this month.

VIEVE

My VIEVE collection

I did a whole post on VIEVE if you’d like to read my in depth thoughts on the brand, but spoiler alert: I love it. I think the standout product for me are the Modern Matte Lipsticks but I’m always surprised at how often I use the Essentials Palette. It’s just so versatile and even a super quick everyday eye looks finished and curated even when I only use two shades. VIEVE have just announced that they are releasing some blushes next month and I’m both insanely excited and terrified for my bank account.

Nabla Cupid’s Arrow Liners

Nabla Cupid’s Arrow Eyeliner

I’ve needed new pencil eyeliners for a long time so when I heard about the Cupid’s Arrow range from Nabla I thought “why not?”. I bought the shades arrow 2 (brown) and arrow 4 (black) and I really like them, they’re a perfect balance between creamy and long lasting, They are some of the softest pencil liners I have ever used but seem to last a long time in my waterline and certainly don’t make me look like a panda by the end of the day. I’ve heard good things about Nabla so I’d like to try out some more things from the brand soon!

Monki High Neck Jumper

Monki High Neck Jumper, Hollister Check Trousers

This is not a new piece in my wardrobe but one I’ve been reaching for again and again this month. I’ve been actually getting up and dressed virtually everyday working from home this month, I wrote a whole post about this recently if you want to know my how I got on, and this Monki jumper has been a staple for me. I am obsessed with the colour, it’s that perfect neutral tone that doesn’t wash me out which is such a blessing! It also goes with everything: I can wear it with all of my skirts and trousers as well as under little pinafore dresses. Kind of a sneak attack favourite and not something I ever thought I would be gushing over when I bought it, a practical purchase that has turned into something I don’t want to be without – the dream!

6 Minute Diary

6 Minute Diary

I found the 6 minute diary on Amazon whilst looking for some kind of gratitude diary. I should start by saying that I am not into manifesting or The Secret, I just can’t get on board with it but I do love the first part of that philosophy which says that thinking positively is a helpful habit. I don’t believe that thinking about my dream house or car or career will make it happen, but I do believe that thinking about it will make me happier than dwelling on the negative would. When I saw the 6 minute diary I thought it would be a great aid, particularly as you use it first thing the morning and last thing at night meaning that I should start and end my day on a positive note, no matter how lockdowny my day has been. The diary definitely forces me to think of the good rather than the bad, which during lockdown can easier said than done!

The Mandalorian

The Mandalorian on Disney+

I’ve been watching The Mandalorian with my boyfriend via Teleparty (previously Netflix Party) over these past few weeks and I had no idea how much I was going to like this show. I have seen all the start wars films but I’m still not super knowledgable on it so I wasn’t sure how much I would like The Mandalorian, but there’s so much to love about it. The show looks amazing visually and I always get lost in the episodes which is so important for me. The writing is also fantastic, it never feels convoluted and I’m never questioning the decisions made by the characters. The casting and acting is superb, and Baby Yoda is a genuinely incredible addition to my life. I felt like such a basic bitch when I fell in love with him but I actually cannot contain myself when he is on screen, I make these weird squeaks and I gasp anytime something mildly perilous happens near him. My boyfriend actually sent me a stuffed Baby Yoda and he sits on my desk when I work from home, he’s just so cute. I’m nearly done with season 2 and I’m actually getting a bit sad about it 😦 clearly I could go on and on, so yeah it’s a favourite!

My blog

I’m really enjoying getting back into writing again, it’s undoubtedly giving me something to do and occupy myself with which is welcome right now! I’ve always said to myself that my blog is something that is there for me when I need it, I try to not feel guilty when I don’t post on it for months because I started it for me so if I haven’t got time to write I’m not going to force myself! But at the moment I am making time for it and loving it.

I hope you enjoyed that post (which mainly ended up being about Baby Yoda, no regrets) and if you did it would be great if you stuck around and subscribed and followed my Instagram – I’m trying to do some reels and it’s going…. interestingly..? Also if you have anything you’ve been loving this month definitely let me know!

I wore office attire working from home everyday for a week: did it make a difference?

Hollie Edmeades1 Comment

I feel like there’s two types of people in the world. The first type gets dressed like they’re running into every manager that’s ever sacked them and ex partner they’ve ever had, even when their day consists only of a supermarket trip. The second type (hi, nice to meet you) puts joy and comfort above all. That means that when staying in the house they’re wearing tracksuits and that hoodie we all have that’s been around for so long that it’s near enough moulded to the shape of our torsos. And with this comes the conundrum of the work from home outfit.

I will be working from home for the foreseeable future so I’ll be toeing the line between ‘workwear’ and ‘I haven’t left the house in three days’ wear. My happy compromise is usually the Zoom outfit: that is of course a suitable top – ranging from a nice plain t shirt to a shirt – and the comfiest trousers I can find. Sometimes I go the extra mile – in both directions – and put on a full face of makeup and fuzzy socks and slippers.

Anyone who does get dressed like they’re going into the office always swears by it; “I just can’t get into the right frame of mind if I’m not in my work clothes” “how can you work in your pyjamas?”. So I decided I would test it myself. Would wearing human clothes make a difference? Or do the pyjama gang have it all figured out?

Monday

& Other Stories Mock Neck Jumper in Pink, ASOS Design Leather Look Leggings, UGG Slippers

I felt kinda sluggish on Monday, so comfy and warm was on the agenda. I got this jumper for Christmas and was super excited to wear it, and if my morning cup of tea wouldn’t wake me up that colour certainly would! I really wasn’t sure about this jumper when I first got it but wearing it throughout the day only made it grow on me. These leggings are also a great compromise between looking put together and being comfy. Day one: success!

Tuesday

Stradivarius Pearl White Jumper, River Island Trousers, UGG Slippers

On Tuesday I went for a classic work outfit for me. This is definitely comfier than it looks because these trousers have a nice amount of stretch to them but they still look structured. This jumper also kept me nice and warm when I went out for my walk, it’s been so cold recently I needed all the help I can get!

Wednesday

& Other Stories Dress, UGG Slippers

Still not sure I’m over this dress yet! I got this dress for Christmas and was fed up of waiting to wear it so I threw it on at home. When I first put it on I wondered if I looked a little too Little House on the Prairie but again it grew on my all day. Good job it goes with my slippers too! (the wfh staple we all need and none of us deserve)

Thursday

Stradivarius Dress, ASOS Design Cardigan, UGG Slippers

I honestly did not want to get out of bed on Thursday, so I felt pretty good about getting dressed! I really did not know what to wear so I just pulled out this old dress from Stradivarius because I know I can’t go wrong with it. It’s probably not a favourite of mine anymore and I didn’t feel amazing in it but it’s good to throw on when I’m standing in front of my wardrobe questioning all of my life choices. The cardigan went on when I got cold and just never came off, not a curated look!

Friday

Monki Jumper, Hollister Check Trousers

I went into the office in Friday for the first time this year so I wanted to wear something I felt good in. I went for some little green heeled boots, these check trousers and neutral Monki jumper, even though I was actually on my feet for most of the day… the boots were worth it (I think).

So how did it go? The main thing I noticed was that I was sitting in a much better posture at my desk. I was less tempted sit like a pretzel because I didn’t want to knee my trousers and I basically acted like I was at work rather than sat in my bedroom! I’m not sure if I necessarily worked any better but I did sit better and my back is thankful for that at least. I also put a full face of makeup on everyday because it felt wrong and a bit like cheating to wear proper clothes with a bare face. This absolutely helped me get into the right mindset to work but the main thing that I notice was that it marked the end of the day for me when I took my makeup off ready for a nice hot bath.

My favourite outfit of the week was definitely Wednesday; LOVE that dress! Although a sneak attack favourite was definitely Monday’s pink jumper – & Other Stories are killing it. I also fell back in love with Friday’s Monki jumper which was a nice surprise. It goes without saying, but the slippers were the true hero of the week. People who say that UGG slippers are the best really are not lying, worth every penny!

Overall, I think this did teach me the value in putting on my work ‘uniform’ rather than sitting in tracksuits, but will I do it everyday..? I hope the answer is yes but I’ll have to see how long I keep it up before gravitating towards the cosies again. One thing is for sure: I will be trying to incorporate the slippers into all outfits from now on.

My 2020 Favourites

Hollie Edmeades1 Comment

It feels like I’ve broadened my horizons over this last year. I think I’ve shaken it up in many areas including but not limited to my makeup routine, my skin care routine (see: actually trying to have one and my clothing. A lot of these came quite late in the year but they’ve made such an impact that I couldn’t not mention them. This is a bit of an eclectic post, featuring single products and longer term changes, thoughts on last year and what I hope to continue for 2021, but I hope there is something in here for everyone.

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless filter

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter

I’ve heard so many influencers and makeup artists talk about Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Flawless Filter but it was only after seeing Jamie Genevieve use it that I realised how much I needed it. The reason it’s a must-have for me? I haven’t worn foundation since I started using this product. It is not a foundation substitute, there is no coverage it just has a very light tint that evens out your skin tone a little and makes you look glowy. I love it because it wears so nicely throughout the day and gives my cheek products something to hold onto so they stay on for longer – I always feel like they fade so quickly without some kind of base to hang onto! Bottom line: it’s worth the price tag for me.

Colourpop Super Shock Shadow in Ritz

Colourpop Super Shock Shadow in Ritz

I’ve loved Ritz since the day I got it. It’s such a low maintenance but high impact product that makes getting ready in the morning so much easier. This product has given me an answer to that question I ask myself every morning I haven’t quite engaged my brain: “What am I going to do with my eyes today?”. It’s quick and easy to apply and goes with almost everything. I can also layer it on to get something really impactful or add just a touch on a no-makeup makeup day. See my full review on Ritz and Colourpop as a whole here.

My fringe

So I technically got my fringe cut in at the very end of 2019 but I feel like she’s really come into her own in 2020 (it might sound odd that I refer to my fringe as a separate entity but if you saw what she looks like when I wake up in the morning you would be doing the same). Having a fringe totally changes the way my face looks, and I know that’s not groundbreaking but it’s interesting when it’s your face! I also feel like just wetting and blowdrying it in the morning makes me look so put together, equally if it’s greasy af then I can look a shambles! I kept trimming during the first lockdown but by June I was almost ready to let her go, but she’s had a resurgence and I’m loving it.

Skincare

Trying to have an actual skincare routine has totally changed my skin. I’ve tried to do a little bit more research last year into what makes a good skincare routine and the thing that has really stuck for me is double cleansing. Any day I wear makeup I use an oil cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser to try and get all of the makeup off. I’ve also been experimenting with active ingredients like AHAs and BHAs as well as Vitamin C, but I’m still working on getting the balance right. I have a long way to go in this area but I’m excited to learn more this year, my skincare wishlist is long!

My attitude towards clothes

My style has changed every year since I was about 18. It’s partially trend lead but also depends on who I’m seeing on my Instagram feed and what I’m doing at the time. This year I swung away from the super girly stuff and looked for different structures and silhouettes, I dabbled in the puffy sleeve and I don’t think I’ve worn skinny jeans all year (certainly a positive change). Where do I stand now? At the moment comfort is King but feeling good in what I wear is Queen, and sometimes she wears the trousers (pun not intended but definitely appreciated). A great example of that compromise is one of my typical work outfits: a skirt, jumper and boots with a chunky heel – comfortable but I feel confident.

Getting stuck in in the kitchen

Lemon Cheesecake

I’ve tried to do more in the kitchen over the last year but the lockdown in March really got me into cooking and baking. I’ve made curries, pizzas, chillis and pastry dishes as well as baked cakes, brownies, more cookies than I can count (not more than I can eat of course) and have a pretty good bread recipe in my repertoire. One of my favourite bakes has been these amazing lemon and blueberry oat bars, they’re similar to flapjacks but are light and flluffy. They’re not too bad for you in the grand scheme of things but still taste amazing with a cup of tea in the morning!

One of the main things I love baking and cooking for is when I’m feeling in a bit of a funk. It gives me something to busy myself with, it’s enjoyable, it feels productive and I (usually) get something tasty at the end of it. I’m writing this with a stomach full of homemade pizza and a slice of lemon cheesecake in my hands, so all in all a very positive change and something I want to continue to work on this year.

Exercise

I’ve always had an inconsistent exercise routine. I suppose routine is a strong word for going to the gym 4 times a week for a month, then not at all for 6 weeks, then everyday for 3 weeks, then not at all, the- you get the picture…

When lockdown hit I started running again with the help of Couch to 5K – which I cannot recommend enough as a side note! I’ve done it twice now and think it’s the best thing to get you running from a standing start. My mum and I did the programme and vowed to continue once it was done – long story short we haven’t… But we’re going again now! The best way for me to sum up running for me is that although I might not love it whilst I’m going, I almost always feel better when I come back than when I left. I was also really looking forward to getting into some classes at the gym this year but that clearly won’t be happening for a while yet.

I would also love to get into yoga and I’m going to try again this year (she says optimistically less than a week into 2021). My main issue is that I’m entirely inflexible and therefore pretty rubbish at yoga. Additionally, getting more flexible and better at yoga is a slow process so it’s hard to see the changes. This all explains why I’ve never done it for longer than a week or two in the past! I tried a few times to get into it in 2020 and it never stuck, but hopefully the fact that I will be working from home for the foreseeable future will give me time to really give it a go. Place your bets as to whether or not I’ll be saying exactly the same thing next year…

Is there anything you loved in 2020? Or any changes that you’re hoping to carry forward into the New Year?

Zara Haul

Hollie EdmeadesLeave a comment

Hi, my name is Hollie and I am addicted to Zara. I am trying to ween myself off this destructive and expensive habit but unfortunately I had a relapse this week and added a few things to my basket. So to try and get something productive out of my purchases I thought I would talk about them here. I also wanted to remind myself of all of the great things I have bought some Zara recently to try and get a second wind of excitement out of the items I already own.

A quick story time about my love affair with Zara because believe it or not we have not always had this close a relationship! I used to walk into Zara and dislike everything that wasn’t a basic t shirt, I’m not sure if I’ve change or if Zara have revamped their designs but currently it’s a totally different story. I cannot get enough of their basics and their dresses, invariably I will walk into a store and find at least 5 things I desperately need. I also appreciate the low prices of the basics without the terrible quality that can typically accompany these prices. I also believe that they are a retailer where you get what you pay for and the higher priced items tend to be worth it if you like the fit and design. Side note: the website is atrocious and I will forever be devastated that I don’t have a Zara in my hometown to wander round to my heart’s content. Now that you’ve got some context, keep reading to see what I ordered late at night.

Ribbed Halter Dress

Black Ribbed Halter Dress

Firstly, a more practical purchase, this black halter midi dress that I thought could be something to wear for work. It’s super simple and looks comfortable but is something that I think would make me feel really put together as well. My main goal in how I dress is feeling good in myself whilst being comfortable – this ticks those boxes!

Rustic Dress with Darts

Rustic Dress with Darts

I’m super undecided about this one. I saw this rustic dress on the website and instantly fell in love with the colour and fit around the top. I’ve been looking for my perfect midi dress for a while because I love the idea but the style has never suited me. This one does fit beautifully on top but I’m not sure if the bottom works or not – the length comes to the bottom of my shin so quite a long midi. I’m conflicted because it was £49.99 so not just a throwaway price tag and I’m unsure of where I would wear this, originally I thought for work but now I’m not sure… So I’m a bit stuck!

Flowing Dress with Gathering

Flowing Dress with Gathering

This is probably the most ridiculous thing in my basket because where on earth am I going to wear this flowing dress fit for a Grecian Goddess? But it’s just so pretty! The cut round the neck and the arms, the colour, the detailing round the waist, the way the skirt falls, it’s just beautiful AND a bargain at £25.99! I convinced myself to buy this for my holiday to Paris, which has now been cancelled, but I think I’m going to have to keep it anyway and just wear it out to dinner!

Halter Neck Bodysuit

Halter Neck Bodysuit

These basic bodysuits were a phenomenon and have been talked about to death but I just wanted to put my two pence in and say that they really are fantastic! I have one in black and another in red, which is pretty big for me because I always try to avoid buying things in two colours. I’ve previously avoided a halter neckline because I didn’t want to accentuate my shoulders but since wearing it more often I’ve changed my outlook and become less worried about that aspect of my figure.

Lace Bodysuit

Lace Bodysuit

Although it looks far from it, I would still call this lace bodysuit a basic because it goes with so much. I’ve worn it with shorts, skirts, jeans and trousers and its been a piece that I can rely on when I’m not sure what I want to wear, especially in the evening because of the low-cut neckline. This is also something that I’ll get wear out of all year round which makes me really excited.

Wide-Leg Trousers with Belt

Wide-leg Trousers with Belt

Another piece for all year round are these wide leg trousers. These were a super smart purchase even if I do say so myself because I’ve already worn them casually, for work and to go out in the evening in the month that I’ve had them. The best part is that these were in the sale for £13 down from £50 so they’ve got that higher quality feel for the price of a basic – that thought still makes me happy!

Poplin Mini Dress

Turquoise Poplin Mini Dress

I wore this turquoise dress for my sister’s birthday a few weeks ago and got so many compliments on it. The colour is stunning and would look even better on darker skin tones. It gives me a high fashion runway vibe with the structured sleeves and skirt, to be honest I really wasn’t sure I would be able to pull this off but I felt incredibly comfortable in it.

Floral Top

Printed Top

This was the first birthday present I bought from me to me (a tradition I suggest that everyone adopts). This floral top is another item that I’ve gotten a lot of wear from already and again is something that I would wear for the majority of the year despite it’s unmistakably summery vibe. The slight puffy sleeve makes it trendy but the flattering cut and neckline makes it not just a flash in the pan piece that will fade into the back of my wardrobe.

Flat Leather Sandals with Pearls

Flat Leather Sandals With Pearls

Finally, I picked up these pearl sandals and have worn them non-stop since they arrived. I wanted a pair of smart but practical sandals that I could where everywhere and anywhere to dress up a casual day dress and dress down an evening outfit – these fit that bill perfectly. I wouldn’t want to walk around in them all day but they are perfect for wandering to lunch or being up and down in the office all day.

Everything I’ve bought in lockdown (so far..)

Hollie Edmeades1 Comment

I’ve tried to restrain my shopping habits a little this year, I told myself I would be good. But then we got told to stay in for the foreseeable future… so I’m gonna go out on a limb and say that this shopping wasn’t my fault and therefore doesn’t count. Hey, I don’t make the rules! With that in mind, I thought I’d share all of the things that have magically appeared on my doorstep over the past few weeks.

Topshop

Topshop Ditsy Babydoll Puff Sleeve Dress

Probably my favourite thing I picked up was this Babydoll Puff Sleeve Dress from Topshop. I loved this so much when I saw it that I set up an email notification so I knew when it was back in stock! This is quite different for me because although I love little summer dresses I’m more of a fit and flare kind of person but this dress is loose and has big puff sleeves which I never thought I’d wear! Definitely still a little out of my comfort zone but still very me in a lot of ways. It’s also worth mentioning that this feels like amazing quality especially for the price.

Glamorous Floral Print Dress

On the other hand, this dress 100% me down to a T! This Floral Print Dress is actually by Glamorous but I also bought this one on Topshop. I love these kinds of dresses, they’re feminine but still fun, girly but not too cutesie, flowing but fitted. This dress ticks all the boxes for me and I love how it makes a bit of a statement but doesn’t scream for attention! I also love how versatile this is as I think it could easily go from day to night with a change of footwear, I’d wear white trainers or sandals in the day and some little heeled sandals in the evening!

Topshop Ivory Honeycomb Cardigan

I’m so glad I took the plunge with this Honeycomb Cardigan from Topshop. I loved everything about this when I saw it apart from the balloon sleeves but when it arrived at my door I decided I really liked it! It’s super cozy and warm but the holes in the loose knit still make it nice and breathable, perfect for a summer’s evening!

ASOS

Stradivarius romantic shirt in blue checks

The first thing I got from ASOS was this Stradivarius romantic shirt in blue checks. I was a little on the fence with this one but I think on balance I’m going to keep it. Again, we have puff sleeves (who is she?!) which admittedly did worry me but I actually think the whole design fits together really nicely. The neckline is super flattering and I love this colour at the minute! I also think this one is more versatile than it looks because although it is a summery piece I think it would look great with some jeans, boots and a coat in the winter.

Topshop super cropped knitted top in ivory

I did buy this one on ASOS even though it’s another Topshop item (I’m really into Topshop right now! Can you tell?) and this was a definite keeper as soon as I unwrapped it. I loved this Topshop knitted crop top when I saw it, such a nice little basic! I actually got this one a size bigger than I usually would because of lack of stock but I really like the fit . I think this one would be great for those cooler summer days with some shorts and trainers!

Pieces Pany giant pearl hair clip

I’m loving these pearl hair clips from Pieces, I actually picked up two because I thought I would prefer having one for each side of my head and I’m glad I did! I think these look so nice pulling my hair away from my face whether I secure them at the back or the side of my head! My favourite thing about these are that not only are they super comfortable and gorgeous but they don’t slide out of my hair! They really grip onto my hair so I don’t have to adjust them every time I move which is such positive because I HATE putting something cute in my hair and having to fiddle with it because it won’t stay still. Super pleased with these ones.

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser

Finally, I picked up this Squalane Cleanser from The Ordinary. I’ve been wanting to try this for a while and it seems to go in and out of stock all the time so I thought I’d grab it whilst I could!

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ASOS Top Festive Picks

Hollie Edmeades2 Comments

If Christmas isn’t an excuse to buy new clothes I honestly don’t know what is. Be it for a Christmas Party, New Years celebrations or a new pair of pyjamas for Christmas Day its totally understandable to get something for yourself when you’re shopping for others! ASOS is obviously my first port of call and I found a few great options for Christmas parties and pyjama parties alike, keep reading to see what I found!

1. The party dress

The party season is well and truly upon us so what better way to start this list. Firstly I think I might have found the party dress of all party dresses.

Love Triangle rose gold dress

How amazing is this Love Triangle rose gold dress?! It’s so beautiful and Christmasy whilst still being super girly. I know this might look a little chilly for the time of year but if you’re just hopping in and out of a taxi I’d sacrifice a few minutes of warmth for that dress!

Lipsy diamond dress

If you wanted to be a bit more understated I think this Lipsy diamond dress in black is an equally gorgeous pick. It’s also more covered up on top but still party appropriate. And better yet both of these dresses cost less than £45 each which I think is a great price for a nice party dress.

2. The shoes

ASOS DESIGN rose gold block heels

Next we obviously need some shoes to go with those dresses, and I think I’d probably wear these heels with either dress. These ASOS DESIGN rose gold block heels are such a good choice as they’ll go with so many outfits and the block heel makes them much more comfortable and easier to walk in.

3. The bag

ASOS DESIGN curved bar clutch bag

This ASOS DESIGN curved bar clutch bag would serve you through the festive season and beyond. It’s super versatile but the gold hardware makes it super Christmas-appropriate.

4. The Christmas morning loungewear

ASOS DESIGN lounge top and trousers

The bit we’ve all been waiting for: the comfies. This ASOS DESIGN lounge top and trousers combo looks so cosy I had to include it! I can just imagine sitting next to the tree on Christmas morning all cosy and warm… okay can it just be Christmas now?

5. The Christmas jumper

Brave Soul reindeer jumper

And finally, the best part of all: the Christmas jumper. I saw this Brave Soul reindeer jumper and I couldn’t resist, it just made me smile! This would definitely be a great option for sitting and eating Christmas dinner, I’d obviously size up a few sizes in preparation for maximum comfort during the feast to come!

I hope that’s given you some festive inspo if you’re looking to get anything for yourself this Christmas. If you liked this post please like and share it and subscribe to my blog so you don’t miss a thing this December.

Hollie x

Winter Wardrobe Warmers

Hollie EdmeadesLeave a comment

The best thing about winter? Lighting candles, getting under the blankets with a nice hot drink and getting super cozy. So obviously we want to stay cozy when we have to venture outside as well! Below are some of my staples for winter and the pieces I’m wearing over and over again to stay nice and warm this season.

Snuggly staple 1: jumpers jumpers and more jumpers!

Monki high neck lightweight jumper in beige melange
Monki high neck jumper

If you live in the UK like I do, you must be used to layering up with jumpers for approx 8 months of the year. But that doesn’t mean we have to look lumpy, bumpy and frumpy! One of my favourites I picked up a few months ago is this high neck jumper from Monki on ASOS. It’s nice and lightweight but keeps me super warm and can be worn with jeans or skirts and boots or trainers.

Snuggly staple 2: dress it up with boots

New Look heeled boots in black
New Look heeled boots

Boots totally change your outfit and a good pair is a total must have in anyone’s wardrobe. My favourites are my New Look black heeled boots and I love these for so many reasons. They have a perfectly shaped toe, a nice heel that gives me a bit of height but they’re still super comfortable and they hug my ankle so they look nice and sleek. They tick all the boxes!

Snuggly staple 3: the perfect winter coat

Image 1 of BASIC COAT from Zara
Zara basic coat in mid-camel

We live in coats in the winter and they’re often the first thing people see when they see you. Coats are definitely a piece worth investing in, but equally if you can save your money then all the better! As soon as I set my eyes on this coat in Zara it was like I had tunnel vision and once I saw the price I couldn’t pick it up quick enough! This is the Zara basic coat, it’s amazing quality and even better it’s only £30. Its got to be one of the best things I’ve bought this Autumn and I know I’ll wear it until it falls apart!

Snuggly staple 4: the warmest scarf you can find

New Look check scarf in camel
New Look check scarf in camel

A scarf seems really obvious for winter, but the amount of times I leave the house without one and seriously regret it… I’m embarrassed to say its too many to count! The scarf I’ve been loving at the minute is just a plain white one I picked up from Primark but its actually really nice and warm and isn’t too scratchy either! I also like this New Look check scarf on ASOS, it would look great with that Zara coat!

That rounds up my top picks for those wardrobe staples we all need to keep nice and warm now the temperatures are dropping. I hope you enjoyed reading, if you did it’d really appreciate it if you could like and share this post and subscribe to my blog.

Hollie x

Sustainable shopping

Hollie EdmeadesLeave a comment

We can all do more to slow the effects of climate change. I’m trying to make a conscious effort to use less single use plastics, to eat less meat and to shop more responsibly. Fast fashion is hugely damaging to the environment and thankfully companies and consumers alike seem to be waking up to how serious this problem is. I’m sure I’m not the only one guilty of buying things I don’t need, throwing things away after wearing them only a handful of times and choosing cheap, unsustainable items rather than investing in pieces that will last a long time. We’re not all in the position to spend hundreds of pouds on jeans and jumpers (I’m certainly not!) but there are still ways to shop sustainably without spending an arm and a leg.

The first and most obvious option is to visit your local charity shops. These are great for a number of reasons, firstly you’re recycling clothing which would otherwise be thrown away, secondly you’re most likely going to be saving some money and thirdly you’re sending your money to a good cause and people that need it rather than a large corporation. I worked in a charity shop for a year and I can tell you they are very picky with what goes on the shop floor and what doesn’t. Anything that doesn’t look pretty new won’t make it out so you don’t have to worry about sacraficing quality, some of the pieces are even brand new with the tags on! Some charities also have an online store and some of these are available on ASOS Marketplace making it even easier to shop for a good cause.

Along a similar vein, second hand or vintage shops are other great places to shop sustainably. Buying second hand is so much better for the environment and you can find some great gems in second hand shops that you would never find on the high street. The Vintage Clothing Kilo sale is a great option that comes to multiple UK cities where you pay £15 per kilo of items you buy, making it inexpensive and better for the environment! Read more about The Vintage Kilo Sale here.

One of my favourite new features to help with sustainable shopping is ASOS’s responsible filter. This sorts the items you’re shown and only displays items that are made from recycled materials or that use sustainable fabrics that use less water in their production. This means that when you’re searching for new autumn pieces you can shop responsibly at the click of a button. You can shop the ASOS responsible edit here and if you want to see some of the things I picked out from it (which you definitely should, not that I’m biased or anything but they’re pretty great) then click here.

The H&M Conscious range has been a favourite of mine for a while because it singles out products that are made from at least 50% recycled materials so you can easily find and buy products that are less damaging to the environment. I’ve bought a few pieces from there that look and feel great but the thing that caught my eye about the conscious range was how inexpensive many of the products are. If you want to read more about H&M’s conscious range just follow this link.

Finally, a sure fire way to reduce the impact of shopping on the environment is just to buy less. I love shopping and getting new clothes as much as the next person (maybe a little more let’s be honest) but I’m making a conscious effort to buy things that I’ll want to wear over and over again rather than filling my wardrobe with trend pieces that this time next year will make me wonder what on Earth I was thinking. I’m also trying to get to that point where I open my wardrobe and love every single thing in it, and that’s much easier to do when I’ve not got as much to wade through!

Every week there seems to be a new person or company we’re not allowed to support anymore or a new thing that we should stop doing in the name of the environment, I don’t know about you but I find that kind of stressful! That’s why with this post I wanted to put together a couple of ways we can change how we shop without it having a drastic impact on our lives. The environmental crisis should be making us all think about how and where we shop, be it for food or clothing, and if there’s a way we can do that without changing our lives entirely then I think it definitely deserves a chance.

Hollie x

How to wear your Summer Wardrobe in Autumn

Hollie EdmeadesLeave a comment

It seems like the weather can’t make its mind up recently, I get up in the morning and wrap up warm for the gym, I come out an hour later and my jumper goes firmly in my bag as I get even more hot and bothered than I did on the treadmill. I don’t know about you, but because of this I’m finding myself stood in front of the mirror contemplating whether a summer dress or jeans and a jumper is more appropriate for the day ahead. This daily conundrum has inspired me to write this post on how to wear your Summer wardrobe this Autumn so we can try keep that autumnal vibe be it hot or cold.

1. When in doubt, add a biker jacket

A leather jacket instantly gives any outfit that extra edge making it the perfect addition if you’re thinking you might look a little too summery. Even a white lacey mini dress looks amazing with a leather jacket thrown over the top, the mix of textures looks effortlessly cool whether you’re going shopping, grabbing some lunch or even a quick trip to the pub.

2. Layers, layers and more layers

Sweatshirts are my best friend in autumn, I love how they look over a casual bodycon dress or even a shorts and t shirt combo. These kinds of outfits are perfect to wear in the morning when the air is still nice and fresh but bare legs keeps you from overheating later in the day. If you’re not a sweatshirt person you can easily switch it out for a little check shirt that matches the base of your outfit that day. I’m also a fan of these tied round your waist later in the day for a really relaxed feel.

3. “You can never take too much care over the choice of your shoes” Christian Dior

Shoes can completely transform your outfit, just think of how different a pair of jeans looks with trainers compared to some skyscraper heels! Swapping your open toe sandles for some chunky white trainers, boots or some cute loafers takes you from summer to autumn in an instant.

4. Pretty tops aren’t just for summer

PSA: stop putting away your little summery tops, their time is not over yet! This might seem kind of obvious but I always forget that a lacey top and jeans (maybe with a leather jacket to top it off!) is a perfect Autumnal outfit. Switching shorts or a skirt for jeans is a great way to get maximum versatility from your wardrobe.

I hope that’s given you a few new ideas for what to wear this Autumn and maybe let you look at your summer wardrobe in a new light. I’ve never been one to put away summer clothes when the months grow colder because there’s just so much you can mix and match across the seasons. It also stops me buying things I basically already own because they’re not tucked away in a box, better for my bank balance and the environment!

Hollie x