Rachel the Hat

Gift Guide For Her (& #Passion4Fashion Linkup)

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Fri, 01 Dec 2017 06:00:00 +0000

I'll be honest, by this point i have normally done 95% of my Christmas shopping, but this year.. well i've barely scratched anything off the old Christmas shopping list, with one thing or another (work, illness, general business), it just hasn't happened. But i am about to get busy and shop shop shop!

Have you managed your Christmas shopping yet?

I've put together this little gift guide for all the ladies in your life, some lovely items for any lady, whether that be a mum,mother in law, daughter, friend or sister.. These feminine items are bound to please, and that's a personal guarantee as all these items are handpicked by me and i love love love them 😀

I've filmed a vlog of this as well as this blog post so feel free to watch or read (or both?) And i would love if you could subscribe to me YouTube channel too!

1. The one of a kind Purse

I love the idea of giving one of a kind/ limited edition pieces, especially if you have someone in your life that likes things that are different to the norm, quirky and gorgeous.

The Haruka Purse is fantastic. The quality is gorgeous, the designs are all different and they make pretty wonderful gifts. Be sure to check out their amazing scarfs too... pure luxury and supporting small brands!

2. Feels like clouds for the Feet Slippers

If im at home i will always always have my slippers on.. always. I love slippers and wear them to death. These pink beauties from Morelands of glastonbury are literally the nicest things that have ever adorned my feet. If you have a lady in your life that loves slippers i highly, highly recommend these. I've been wearing mine non stop since October and i will definitely buy a new pair once i've worn these out (which i will imagine will be some time as they're excellent quality). If you know someone who usually likes a Ugg slipper, try this instead this year, they come in an array of colours and choices of slip on or loafer and they cost less than uggs too!

3. Pjs for a Princess

These royal blue Joules pj's are the softest most beautiful pyjamas, a lovely luxury pj gift is always a good idea in my eyes. Who doesn't love smart pj's? I have another of joules and they're still going strong 4 years later. Great quality and make great gifts.

4. Smells Like Christmas Candle

Have you ever shopped at Amara? They're a life, style and living brand that hold some of the nicest things for gift shopping. Among those things are candles. Is there any one who doesn't like a great smelling candle??? (Seriously is there?) There candle selection is dreamy. I went for the christmas scent and it is festive perfection.

5. Super Stripey Sweater

As soon as i saw this sweater i knew i had to include it. I love it for lots of reasons, personally i can't wait to wear it, the colours are fun and vibrant and the quality is a soft cashmere blend. The other reason i wanted to include it is because i think this jumper would work for so many different ladies; Mums, sisters, Nan's all types of ladies, this jumper would look brilliant!

Laura Ashley makes some fab knits, be sure to check them out if like me, you love a new jumper for Christmas!

6. Ladylike teacup and saucer

To drink tea from a lovely tea cup and saucer is just such a delightful treat, wouldn't you agree? I love to give pretty and practical things that can be used all year long and not just for chritsmas. The Pip studio collection is one of the prettiest sets i've ever seen. And drinking tea out of such a pretty cup surely makes the tea even better.

The other thing is, the sets are such great value for money and exquisite in design, the teacup and saucer here looks super expensive but is only £13.00!

7. Dinky Perfume sets

Sometimes, you may not know what perfume to buy some one, sometimes the person my not have a favourite scent, well these small Ghost sets are perfect as little testers to see if someone would like the perfume. For me, i wear Ghost perfume all year round so these make perfect little purse sized bottles to take on the go with me. Fab little stocking filler gifts at just £8.00!

8. The Prettiest Jewellery (that won't break the bank)

I recently discovered Olia jewellery on Instagram and oh my days, i'm so glad i did. Olia stocks some of the best pieces i've seen in a real long time. Mix rose gold and silver or just stick to one type, the site is a veritable mecca for all those magpies who love shiny shinies(like me).

I have earrings, a necklace and 3 bracelets and i'm eyeing up another necklace already.

9. Pretty Underwear

Ahh who doesn't like to wear some pretty underwear huh? It can definitely make a girl feel good! And these delightful french knickers are 100% silk and sheer luxury. Vibrant and fun, Scrumpies of Mayfair is a new brand that really brings a bit of fun to fancy pants.

So what are you buying the ladies in your life this year?
Let me know in the comments below as i still have a couple of gifts to get and would love some more ideas!

I was really lucky to be gifted some of these items not necessarily for the gift guide, but everything i've included has been handpicked by me and i love love love them all!!

An InLinkz Link-up

Meet Amanda of Haurka

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 14:47:00 +0000

Earlier this month i visited the gorgeous independent brand Haruka. During my time there I got to spend the day with Amanda the owner & designer (and so much more!). I have to say in regards to blog experiences this is one of my favourites to date. Seeing Amanda in her natural habitat, viewing her work, seeing and hearing about her ethics and what goes in to every single piece she designs and creates was awe inspiring.

If ever there were a question as to why people should shop small business, this answered it without doubt for me.
Haruka is Amanda.

She is in every fibre of the business.
And she wants to just share that with everyone.

It is like a second child to her. Her love and devotion for the clothes she creates and sells to ladies is incredible. The thought and care that goes in to each item is meticulous and beautiful. She takes the time with customers as much as she does with designing the clothes, each piece has a story to tell of how it came about; which fabric was painstakingly chosen, what journey they went through to get to

the final product and if there is any meaning to its particular design.

WHAT MADE YOU START HARUKA?

As with many things in life, Haruka evolved organically. I had no idea where I would be today when I started, no idea that this was to be my life path ! I just wanted to do something. I was living in Varanassi, India. One of my favourite places on the globe. A vibrant, sprawling, ancient city famous for it’s burning ghats, throngs of pilgrims and tourists and silk fabrics.

At that time I was about 25 with no responsibilities and a lot of freedom. I had spent the previous four years or so travelling and working in odd jobs, here and there to support myself. I had spent a year in southeast Asia, a couple of months in India, a year living in a van on the east coast of Australia and time living in communities in Israel and Italy. In those times, I was often crocheting a bag or creating intricate designs in chain stitch or applique on my hand stitched clothes. It is fair to say, I had had a fair run at a gap year! I had a lot of time on my hands and I was ready to get my teeth into a bigger project, to learn a new skill.

In Varanasi, I was introduced to Kamu, who was to become my friend. He had a small tailor’s shop in Bengali Tola. A narrow alley that runs parallel to the river Ganges. The kind of place where everywhere you look is a perfect photograph. I designed some clothes for myself and had them made.
I loved that I could get so close to the process of clothes design.
I loved the freedom to create anything.
I loved that I could make the clothes I actually wanted to wear, with the fabrics I actually wanted to wear.
And it turned out a lot of other people loved the clothes I was making. Miraculously for me at that time I had saved a couple of grand from my last stint at a waitressing job back in the UK and I decided to create what I would now call a capsule collection of five simple designs that would mix and match together. A full length halter neck dress, Wide leg fitted trousers (which I still make versions of sometimes and have called the Kamu trousers after my friend), a wrap around cotton top; a tiny halter neck top with an open back and the pocket tunic. The latter is still one of my favourite designs. I love the simplicity and utilitarian nature of it and, in fact, I have just produced some more of them due to popular demand.
See them here

Ghanshayam, my pattern cutter and me

Not being one to keep things simple, even on my first collection I didn’t buy mill dyed cotton in stock colours. I have never taken the easy road in my quest for perfection (an illusory goal and my constant carrot on a stick even now and probably as long as I live.) I loved and still do, the Khadi Bhavan. These are the government shops and spinning and weaving initiatives established by Ghandi to bring the production of cotton back to India instead of England and to make it accessible in price for the common people. Nowadays that original sentiment is ironic as these shops are far too expensive for the average poor person in India, of which there are many. However, that is beside the point. I made all the samples with Kamu. Calculated how much cloth I would need, went to buy the correct amount of hand spun and hand woven cotton and headed off to the Muslim area of Varanasi to find people to dye it to my specifications. After some trial and error, I succeeded. All the designs were produced in natural, deep red, green and brown. In those days I would not have touched blue with a barge pole, but now I wear it all the time!

The collection was born. Alongside the cotton pieces were some dupion and matka silk versions of the same designs. Nearing the end of the process, I realised a collection should have a name. I should have a label stitched in these clothes. I hadn’t even thought of that. I had to come up with something fast. I called it Jasmine Fish because that was the name of my goldfish and I think my email password at the time. I drew a childish picture (I am not a very good artist at all unless it’s picture’s of dresses you are after!) and I got some labels made. Funnily enough, I happened to unearth them in my recent shop move and I couldn’t help but smile.

The collection was sent to my friend Neil’s shop in the city of Nottingham where I had gone to university to study English, not fashion or textiles, which is a question I am often asked. He was so inspired by it that he put on a fashion show.

At this exact same time, life dealt me a curve ball. My mother died suddenly back in England and with the test I bought in the airport on the harrowing series of flights home, funded on my trusty credit card, I discovered I was pregnant. I had not known Isamu long. We had been having a magical love affair in Varanasi. He had gone to visit his mother in Japan and, although we had talked about meeting on his return, in all honesty, who knows what may have happened. But life is what happens when you are busy making other plans and I knew deeply in my heart that despite it being a less than conventional beginning that I was going to have this baby. Isamu very honourably flew over to England as soon as he heard, in absolute terror of meeting my father and having to explain how he got his daughter pregnant. Not that my father was sharpening his samurai sword, all my family took warmly to Isamu and blessed our journey as we began to forge our lives together. I was in a place right on the knife-edge of birth and death. Of grief and hope. I knew I had to choose life, to choose hope, to choose the future. So I flew to India to meet Isamu (I had sent him off some weeks earlier to have his last dose of freedom and classical music lessons before he became a daddy.) I remember getting on the Shiv Ganga Express, the night train from Delhi to Varanasi, and lying in my top bunk, with the train hurtling through the Indian plains I felt my baby move in my tummy for the first time and smiled sweetly to myself in the dark.

I went back to Varanasi and picked up where I had left off. I made more clothes, both for myself and to sell. I took a flight back to England seven and a half months pregnant. I had no idea where to live. I had not really built a life there and I was a different person to the one I had been four years ago when I left. I chose Glastonbury, a place I had visited only once before and where I knew no one. I found a cottage to rent from farmer John and Isamu and I moved to Somerset. We were dressed in our usual garb. All white and beige flowing silks, long skirts and dresses for me and traditional Indian silk Kulter for him. Shawls wrapped round shoulders, belly and often our heads the whole time. We began to do the local market which was at that time in the car park behind the market and our natural fabrics and floaty, drapey designs were very popular.

When our son was born, we called him Haruka. The way his name is written in Japanese is an old Chinese Kanji which means beyond the sky, beyond the horizon, more than you can see or contain. Haruka means infinity. As I started to develop my business more seriously, working with suppliers in Nepal as well as India, I could not think of a better name in the whole world for my label so I called it Haruka as well and brought up both of my Haruka’s together.

After a few years doing the markets both locally and in festivals and travelling for extended periods and even borrowing my friend Tanya’s shop, God’s Gift, for a year whilst she spent some time with her young daughter I started a shop of my own. That was nearly nine years ago now. In februrary we moved to another premises two doors up the road from my original shop. I now have a photographic studio above the shop and a flexible space that I can use for meetings, organising stock and occasional retail. I would love to use it as a design studio but I don’t think that is realistic as I prefer to isolate myself when I design a collection and I would be far too distracted in the shop and always downstairs chatting or dealing with the issues of the day.

I have said a lot about this, and more than I meant to but for me, business and my personal life have always been so intricately threaded together. I love people and I love stories. I love my work because of all the people and stories it brings me into contact with, both in India with my suppliers and in Glastonbury with my customers and the women who work with me in the shop.

I also wanted to give you a sense of the roots of my design aesthetic and inspiration. Although my clothes have evolved over the years, I have been much influenced, and still am, not only by India, but also by Japanese aesthetics and design sensibility.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE WORK-LIFE RATIO AS THE OWNER OF THE BUSINESS?

I think the simple answer to this is, I don’t ! It is an area I really struggle with. There are never enough hours in the day for me and my to do list is always looming in the corner of my vision. As an independent business owner working across time zones I often work from early morning talking to my suppliers in India so I can catch them before they go for lunch. As a perfectionist, I find it very hard to congratulate myself for the things I have done well and am constantly looking for how I could do it better or the next thing that needs doing.

When he was in primary school, I used to take my son out of school regularly for at least two months at a time on my production trips and home educate him as a single mum. At times his dad, who returned to live and work in India would take him and sometimes he couldn’t. There were many occasions when it was extremely challenging as I had to take him to the factory with me if there was no one else to look after him. I made sure I was disciplined about homework time and meal times. Some of my golden memories of that era are of reading to him. I loved reading Lord Of The Rings to him and the Eragon series and we used to sit for hours with a chai in various lake side restaurants enthralled together in a novel.

These days, Haruka, now aged thirteen and a half, is in a state school, close to home, where he boards weekly. So he sleeps at school on Monday to Thursday and at home on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. This has been a really good and healthy solution for us both as he loves his school and has developed a close knit bunch of friends and I am no longer in danger of killing myself haring down the country lanes late to pick him up from school. I now go to India more frequently, for shorter periods and he stays in school some weekends and with friends or family for others. Although I miss him, I love my time away in India as it gives me a block of time to be creative

TELL US A TYPICAL DAY IN THE LIFE FOR YOU..

I wake up to the dulcet tones of my alarm by seven at the latest. Check my emails, call India if I need to, drink too much coffee, have a shower and then I go for a walk before my day starts.

I have recently moved house to Glastonbury, where my shop is. I live on the road that leads to the Tor and have designed myself a walking route that I don’t deviate from that involves two big uphill’s. My yoga practice often slips when I am in England so I do this walk instead. I need it not only for my physical health but for my sanity and being in motion clears my head for the day. The walk takes forty minutes at a fast pace and I try to be back by nine. Sometimes it is hard to get going but I always feel better when I am on the homeward stretch no matter what mood I started in.

I moved house in September and have currently been living in a bit of a building site as I am renovating a house on a stringent budget. So I may need to talk with my friend and carpenter Jono about what we need to decide about the wooden floor or the kitchen or a million other things such as where plugs should go or what we need to buy. I cannot tell you how many hours I have spent on Ebay and similar sites looking for the perfect second hand curtains or range cooker. My mind is a crazy place!

I then go to the shop. I can walk there now, it is only five minutes away and I really love driving less. I have a lot of hats to wear at the shop and go between tasks such as trying to get my head around the necessity of social media, shop display and organisation, stock rotation, organising sales, training staff, answering emails, paying people and bills dealing with the website, trouble shooting my new E.P.O.S ( Electronic Point of Sale) system which has not been a great fit to the individuality of my business and takes up far too much of my time at the moment and is driving me absolutely crazy. More pleasurable tasks are meeting with other designers whose creations I sell and selecting new things for the shop, organising photo shoots, changing the shop window displays. I also spend a lot of time chatting to and advising the customers and sharing the stories behind the clothes.

Thank Goddess I have a wonderful team of women who work with me in the shop and all bring their own unique skills, magic, life experiences and wisdom to the mix. I would be lost without them.

If I get home early enough I have a tea with Jono to discuss progress or I may do something glamorous like a tip run. In recent days I have been oiling my new oak floor after everyone has gone.

I then go back to my to do list and my crazy home décor searches, before eating some food and perhaps having a drink with a friend either in or out. Or I watch a documentary. I am enjoying Blue Planet two at the moment. I usually stay up far too late as I love the time to myself.

WHATS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE WHOLE PROCESS? RESOURCING? DESIGNING? CREATING? SELLING?

I love all of it and to me it’s all connected. Without the women who wear my clothes and love my work none of it would be happening. I love the women whom I meet in my shop. I often have in depth conversations with my customers and staff about all range of topics both serious and light hearted, to do with the clothes or our lives. Nothing is off limits and I love how, being in Glastonbury, my shop can be a meeting place of women from all over the world who feel at home there. I meet so many special women every day and I love hearing their stories and their laughter. It is also very important for me to get feedback on the clothes, both the fit and the fabrics. I never want anyone to feel under pressure to buy in my shop. It is a playful place where people can try things on and experiment with what works.

I like arranging the shop rails and putting all the colours and textures together in a way that is pleasing to the eye. And I love it when I do a window display that I really like. We call all the dummies ‘Bettie’s’ as that was the name of the first second hand dummy I bought who used to live in Claire and Steve’s shop window. The mannequin with arms and legs, we call Priscilla as she is a bit more fancy!

In contrast, the process of designing is a much more insular process for me and, as I said earlier, I really need to spend a lot of time on my own to get in the zone. I leave for India with a range of ideas, drawings and rough samples that fit together as a collection. But to be honest, I never know how the finished picture will look exactly until I choose the fabrics and figure out how I can piece it all together.

I have some regular materials that I use, such as the cotton Lycra, which is 6% Lycra, so it keeps it’s shape and with a high G.S.M. This means grams per square metre and means it is a tighter weave with a good drape. Sorry if I am boring you with the finer details, but these are things that really matter in the whole design process and the quality of the finished product.

A large part of my fabrics I find by scouring the surplus fabric market in Delhi. A sprawling mass of alley ways teeming with rickshaws carrying both people and towering piles of materials. Alongside cows, street food stands, people walking, motorbikes, exhaust fumes, lots of noise and dust and many, many shops of all sizes and varieties. Of course I have my special places here, trusted suppliers, usually in big shops who have good connections with their suppliers and a lot of knowledge about fabrics. But there is always the chance that I might find something new and unexpected too in a small shop I have never seen before. All these fabrics are end of line or surplus to requirements from other, bigger manufacturers so I am using up fabrics that are left over from the fashion industry. It also means I can find really high end fabrics that otherwise I may not be able to afford. Plus it makes so many of my pieces limited edition as there are only so many I am able to make.

I turn up with my files of designs, swatches of fabrics I know I need to match with others, maybe a colour or fabric swatch I want to find something similar to and quite a lot of rupees hidden in my bag! I have been working with the same people for years now so I feel very at home there. I spend hours, sometimes days sitting drinking chai and selecting my fabrics. I have to be very careful not to get too over excited and blow all my budget by accident. So often I will take a metre of the fabrics back to my hotel to think about them. Or I will send some metres for sampling to my factory and make some samples to see if my ideas work and to work out quantities of fabric that I need. If something is just totally amazing then I just buy it. I can’t help myself, I know I will never find it again !

The process of producing and designing is far more logistical than perhaps many people imagine. If I want to dye a silk cotton a certain colour to match the jersey fabric (for example the panels in the tulip dress. See link : http://haruka.co.uk/shop/609-silk-and-jersey-tulip-dress ) I have to dye a minimum of 200m per colour. I have to think how I can use up the fabric in other designs and still offer a broad colour range and a variety of other styles and fabrics. It is important for me to think about costings in the design process and make decisions accordingly and also to think about the other fabrics I already have in stock. I really have to concentrate!

After a week in Delhi, I am ready to settle in for a month minimum of working closely with the small factory I work with in Rajasthan. I settle myself into the same family run hotel, in the same room I always stay in and start the intensive design process. I have a very good friendship and working relationship with Ghanshayam, the head pattern cutter and we work closely together on my ideas. I know my way around the factory and come in the back door. I often go searching for things on my own such as buttons, labels, fabrics or one of my samples that is being stitched in another room. I know the people that work there. One of my favourites is Dilip who manages the fabric room. He is an invaluable piece of the jigsaw puzzle and keeps all my fabrics in order. My friend Dan often says about mass produced High Street goods that, as far as the consumer is concerned, they are made by invisible elves. I am proud that I know and value the individual people who are part of the nuts and bolts of the manufacturing process.

I wake very early so I can do yoga before going to the factory and I spend most of my time on my own, apart from the people with whom I work. I am obsessive and my room is covered in a creative chaos of drawings and samples. Most days when the working day finishes in India, the working day in England starts and I will spend time dealing with emails and messages about the shop until late in the evening. I find it very hard to switch off. My smart phone is both my nemesis and my saviour!

WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR HARUKA IN THE NEXT 5 YEARS?

I am hoping I can grow the Internet side of my business because not everyone can get to my shop in Glastonbury. Also, if I increase my sales, then I will have more money to go and buy more fabrics for us all and I will also have a wider choice of the fabrics I can obtain if I can buy in bulk. Along side the surplus fabrics I would like to be able to increase the amount of organic fabrics I use in the colours I want to have them in.

It’s hard though as a small business owner, wearing so many hats, and as a mum to promote myself on social media and deal with things like Google optimisation etc, something which is increasingly necessary in this modern world. I just don’t have the time for it. And nor do I want to just spin out bland marketing speak. It is important for me to keep it real and honest, funny and, if at all possible, graceful. But we are getting there and I love my new website although there is always something to troubleshoot behind the scenes ! I think most of my customers so far find out about us by word of mouth.

I would like to continue to grow my connections with the network of independent designers of which I am a part. I love that other labels really compliment my collections. I am proud to support and be supported by so many individuals making so many amazing things. I would like to sell the work of other designers on my website too because together we thrive.

I collect old and unusual textiles from around the world. I have a dream that one day I will have enough time to travel more to different places sourcing amazing tribal fabrics and shawls from the people who make them. And perhaps sell some of them on a new section of my website that I dream will be called’ one of a kind’ The problem is I love them so much, so far I would find it hard to sell any of my collection ! But maybe one day. I do have an amazing selection of hand woven shawls in the shop already though sourced by both myself and others, and I love the tribal edge they bring.

TELL US, WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE 3 ITEMS THIS SEASON OUT OF THE HARUKA RANGE AND WHAT DO YOU LOVE WEARING YOURSELF?

The first thing I took was The Seed of Life Coat in cotton with the silk scarf:

http://haruka.co.uk/shop/coats/seed-of-life-coat1

I love everything about it. The texture of the cotton, the striking quality of the silk, the weight of the garment and it’s versatility as a light coat or a smart jacket. I also had the brass seed of life buttons made especially. The only problem is I want the blue one too as it’s the same design but completely different due to the fabric choices :

http://haruka.co.uk/shop/1156-seed-of-life-coat

I also wear the Bloomsbury Smock Dress in Harvest Yellow:

http://haruka.co.uk/shop/1148-bloomsbury-smock-dress

It is made from a thick and soft hand woven cotton that has got softer with washing. I wear it with my jeans and a shawl. It is comfortable and practical and has very big pockets. I designed it for the belt to fasten at the back to pull the garment in for something a bit different but it can be worn without the belt too.

It’s hard to choose only three things but I will make my third the Ladakh Dress in silk cotton :

http://haruka.co.uk/shop/silk-cotton-empire-line-ladakh-dress

This silk cotton fabric is one of my favourite finds in the surplus market. I bought it all. It is a very gentle colour and it makes me feel graceful. I like to dress practically and I will often wear this with my black palazzo pants and, of course, a shawl.

The pattern is based on an old coat from Ladakh which I found in the Tibetan area of Delhi many years ago, back in the very beginnings of my journey with designing and producing clothes. Traditionally all the wool was hand woven in the home and was therefore of narrow widths. This coat was composed of vertical panels stitched together which is very flattering and elongates the body. I have taken the same panel construction for this wrap around dress.

Wow just wow!
Big thanks to Amanda for sharing her amazing journey with us, i feel like having an in-site in to Amanda and your business really puts a life and a face to the brand, makes me want to shop there all the more.

Be sure to check out all Haruka's pieces on their website

or Facebook and Instagram

Baby Blue and Red: A great colour combination to try

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Mon, 27 Nov 2017 09:00:00 +0000

I put this colour combination together recently and fell in love. Something about the pale blue and the red that actually really works. The pale of the blue and the bold of the red acts as a great contrast and is a nice alternative to other neutrals. This is a basic jeans and a jumper look but there's something about adding in little bits of interest to make it less of a boring run of the mill outfit.

THE COAT

Red coat of dreams that keeps on giving. I flippin' love it. I wear it so many times a week. Instant perk you up in a coat and is a dreamy shade of red, and of course is the colour of the season without a doubt.

What you can't see in these photos is that it has a boucle texture to it which means it looks smart and feels cosy too.

JEANS

I paired it with my favourite jeans which are a new addition. I've sorta of quit skinny jeans these past 6 months, i just don't feel comfortable in them any more. I don't like how they look on my pear shaped figure, on my ample hips and thighs for me they're just not flattering. The mom jean and the straight leg is where its at for me at the moment, and since i bought these Topshop Moto jeans i have been living in them. Theyre a true denim (so not much stretch) but they are comfy because they aren't clingy like a skinny jean. There's something about the silhouette they create that i'm really enjoying right now.

THE JUMPER

Oh the jumper.. pale blue isn't a colour i've gravitated towards before, but i saw this and just thought it could work incredibly well with a lot of other items i own. Like i mentioned it acts as a great neutral but with interest. The pearls on the sleeves are such a great little adornment and add the perfect bit of interest to a normal jumper and jeans look.

FINISHING TOUCHES

I finished the look with some statement earrings, the blue tonal baubles add in another bit of interest, and the navy comfy sock boots are seriously some of the comfiest boots i've ever owned. The style of sock boots sits perfectly with this style of jeans and the point of the boot adds elegance. The kitten heel means these are perfect day wear boots, and i have worn them from 8am till 9pm at night without one single grumble. Oh how i love a comfy boot!

So blue and red, is it a combination you would try?

November Favourites

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 09:46:00 +0000

Its nearly the end of the month again guys.. can you believe it (i know.. i say that every month😂), which means it's monthly favourites time.

Would love you to click through and subscribe and let me know what you've been loving in November.. because sharing is caring, right?😃

Three Holy Grail Fashion Fail-safes To Make Your Own

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Sat, 25 Nov 2017 14:57:00 +0000

Image

The only sure fire thing in fashion is that trends will change. Be it spots, stripes, or sequins the very nature of the beast is that what’s in style this season will almost certainly be out next season. And with Instagram and other social platforms aggressively driving micro-trends, such as that must-have studded Zara mini, keeping up can be exhausting.

Sometimes it feels like a return to basics is just what’s needed. Fast fashion has its place, but with more of us increasingly concerned about the morally dubious ethical landscape around cheap clothing manufacturing, there’s a lot more focus on investing in better-made pieces that can be worn and styled in hundreds of different combinations over time.

It’s better for the planet, it's better for our wallets in the long-run and it's certainly better for our nerves after being bombarded with ‘must-have’ new items from every angle. But what are those holy grail pieces that will prove a love-forever addition to the wardrobe of any woman, whatever her personal style? Here are just three of the best:

A Dash of Denim

Originally a low-status workwear staple in the Western US for working men, we’re all well aware of denim’s evolution over the years into the fabric of choice - not just for leisure, but increasingly in workplaces too. Denim never goes out of fashion, mostly thanks to the vast variety of ways it can be worn. Got a meeting? Pair a check blazer with some indigo skinnies and silky blouse. Brunch with friends? A ripped pair of boyfriends with an oversized knit will do the trick. But don’t forget how useful it can be up top. Denim Jackets mih has a beautiful selection of modern takes on the piece that pair with everything from palazzo pants to a little black dress. Denim has the ability to spike the formality of other pieces perfectly.

Failsafe Blazer

A structured black blazer is also a truly versatile winner that can carry you through the years with ease. In the opposite capacity to a denim jacket, this can bring structure and a smartened-up vibe to even the most casual of outfits. Easy to thrown on and work with anything from a roll neck to a slinky camisole, the appeal of this little beauty will never fade. Brands like All Saints have tailoring down pat, and really understand how to structure beautiful, could-be-designer outerwear.

Bring on the Breton

The Breton stripe top is a garment that can be worn by literally everyone from Joan Jett to Coco Chanel via the Duchess of Cambridge - and whoever your personal style icon is, it's a safe bet that they’ve been pictured in one. Again, the beauty of them lies in how easily they can be made to chime with your personal style - whether that’s ripped denim cut-offs and gladiator sandals or a tailored suit. There is almost no occasion where the Breton top would be a style mistake. Play the print down or clash it with a jolt of leopard for a modern twist. Petit Bateau makes the best, but H&M usually have a great selection on the high street.

*This is part of a happy Collaborative post

Floral Maxi dresses & #Passion4Fashion Linkup

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Fri, 24 Nov 2017 06:00:00 +0000

Happy Friday ladies! Today i'm coming at you with a floral maxi dress. I actually LOVE a winter maxi dress, and this one from H&M is simply stunning. The dark tealy green background and the red flowers were just up my street.
Even though maxi dresses are usually synonymous with summer and sandals, i love mine in the winter. I bought my first winter maxi dress last October (see that post here) and i still have it and love it (i may whip it out next week actually and wear it with these red boots!).I also have the polka dot maxi worn recently (see that here) and can't wait to wear that one again too.
They're easy to style with boots and a biker and look instantly glam or even smart-casual.
You can add in tights underneath and a cami to keep things warmer too.
This one from H&M is not available online anymore but is still in some stores. I've listed some fab options at the bottom of the post if you're in the market for a winter maxi dress.

And the boots.. well the boots are bit special aren't they. They're an early birthday present that i simply couldn't wait for. bright red knee high boots aren't for the faint hearted, but there's something outrageously fabulous about them. I've worn them twice already and i love how they instantly bring a bit of fun to any outfit. They also work perfectly with maxi dresses!

Do you have any winter maxi dresses?
If you don't, Would you consider one?

An InLinkz Link-up

A chat about Blogging these days and an outfit i just really liked

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Tue, 21 Nov 2017 09:00:00 +0000

I wasn't planning on posting these images as a blog post, they were merely taken for an insta pic, which i try to do daily.
I didn't deem them good enough for the blog, the lighting is dark, the poses are all a bit samey and it just didn't seem like the type of photo i would publish here.
But then i got to thinking. I really like this outfit so why not.

Here's the thing: There's something quick and easy and an element of instant gratification with instagram, likes come within moments, comments are easy to give and reply and then we all move on to the next photo. The easy access on our phone means we can pick it up and put it down, whether that be a quick moment on the toilet (yup guilty) or a waiting for the bus, its easy. And in a world where we are all a million miles an hour we often convenience is key.

Six and half years ago when i first started blogging i would blog an outfit 3 times a week, hardly ever missing an outfit day.
But with time i have posted less outfits here, content has changed and i have sometimes stepped back a bit choosing to micro-blog on Instagram over sharing here at the blog.
There's been talk on the social channels at the moment that perhaps blogs are slowing down and dying a little. But i don't think that's the case entirely. I think there will always be room for blogs as there is still for newspapers, magazines, books and informative websites.

I guess the daily chat on Instagram appeals to me, its easy to quickly explain about your boiler breaking (yup that was me) or that you fell over on some leaves (also me), but by the time i sit down to write a blog the moment has mostly passed and i've probably forgotten it as life just moves on so quickly.

So what am i trying to say here?
Um i'm not really sure. I'm not quitting blogging that's for sure, but just perhaps i'm going to make a conscious effort to show more outfits, whether the photos are perfect or not and maybe try a little harder for some banter and chat, as that is what brought me to blogging in the first place.

On to the outfit!
This dress is such a simple piece but i've worn it twice in the past 5 days. It's comfy, it has pockets and makes me feel nice when i wear it.
It was a bargainous £20.00 from H&M and comes in a number of colour ways i'm tempted to get it in the red and black as well as this green as its just so easy to wear.. and did i mention it has pockets?

I teamed it with my super old biker boots, my trusty biker jacket and my new Baker Boy hat, which is a trend i am sure pleased to see has returned. I love a hat (obvs) but the baker boy is possibly my favourite type of hat. Its easy on the old nonce and it keeps your face dry and hair out of the way when we have inclement weather (which is often shall we say).
The Baker Boy hat is £15 from Topshop and is generous (good for my large head), im super tempted to get it in the rust red colour as i really love it that much!

Simple outfit, but super happy. I love that i feel tidy in this but also comfy to sit at my desk all day, or even get the hoover out. Its an all rounder of a dress that i can see me wanting to reach for time and time again. I like the idea of wearing it layered with some faux leather trousers and a turtle neck underneath. But if i'm honest, i really just like it just like this :)

So tell me ladies, how do you feel about blogging these days? Do you still love to read them/ write them or are you leaning more to social media such as Instagram?

Much Love

Winter Warmth Essentials

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 10:45:00 +0000

Ok i will warn you now, this is (obviously) not a high fashion post.. im talking cosy toes and all things warm and practical!

Low temperatures mean it is time to get cosy! I actually love this time of year when it gets super chilly and you need to bring out all the, scarves and hats, the warm boots and big thick coats. When i open the curtains and see a clear day with frost adorning the ground my heart is happy. I know.. i may possibly be mad, but there is nothing i love more than walking Cassy on a cold crisp morning.
On those lovely cold dry mornings I walk Neo to his bus stop (with Cassy of course) and we get all bundled up in our hats and big coats and gloves. We play don't step on the cracks and we chat as we walk. Its just one of my favourite things to do.
And I'll be honest, fashion goes out the window for me on those morning walks. Its all about the cosiest of coats and the warmest of toes.
I've teamed up with OD's Designer Clothing to bring you the very warmest of clothing (and still rather lovely too!)

The Practical & Warm Coat

Oh yes.. the first thing i pull out of storage when it gets cold is my warmest jacket.
I will always say invest in a good winter coat. I invested in my red one (above) two years ago and its still going strong. These here are all going to keep you warm for years to come. I love the Blue and the red (which is by the brand Parajumpers) for standing out.

Add a layer

Sometimes if i'm hoping from car to shop and then home again i love to throw a layer on but nothing to restrictive (bizarrely i hate wearing a big coat when i'm in the car, i feel constricted and get too hot). A long waistcoat or a throw/poncho is ideal for short trips, these are both Rhino & Pelle and would work perfectly for that extra layer.

Pretty Knitwear (of course)

Oh knitwear, each year i buy too much, but i can't help myself, its such a long winter i feel like lots of knitwear is needed.

Having pretty knitwear obviously helps too. I am going to invest in a couple of special pieces this year and make sure i get the wear out of them. I think a new slogan jumper and maybe something pretty like the Ted Baker below, dress it up or down and it will be a great little workhorse of a piece.

Cosy Toes

Love them or hate them Ugg's really do keep your toes the warmest of the warm. I have 3 pairs and come winter i will be living in them. I wear them around the house, if i go out and wear shoes i will often put my Uggs in the car to change back in to as soon as i can, and i love them to walk the dog in (not advisable in the rain however). Yes they are the marmite in the shoe community but sometimes practicality and warmth prevails, and these are by far the warmest shoes i've ever donned. And extremely comfy too. Tell me, do you love them or hate them?

Are you a cold weather enthusiast like me?

What are you Cosy essentials this time of year?

Much Love

This post is a happily Collaborated post, thanks for supporting RTH and the brands who work with me :)

My First Daily Vlog!

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Sun, 19 Nov 2017 11:36:00 +0000

Ohhhh it took me some time to whip the camera out in public and start talking to it BUT i did it.. my first ever Daily Vlog!
Last week i went to Glastonbury for the day (as you may have seen from my Haruka Post, if you haven't seen it be sure to check it out in full as it has my Top Picks from the store and they are well worth a look) and Hung out with Amanda of Haruka and got to play dress up in her store. Amanda then took me for a gorgeous lunch and up the famous Tor!
Grab a cuppa and come have a watch of my first very daily vlog and see what i got up to that day!

Much Love

What to Wear to an Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Sat, 18 Nov 2017 14:00:00 +0000

Image Source

Did you know, just after Christmas is the time when people start to look for new jobs.. I guess it's the whole new year new start thing, plus the down time over the festive period gets us thinking about what we are doing and if we want to be doing something else.

First comes the job searches, then comes the interviews

Some may not think employers are judging you on your wardrobe, but quite often the way you dress and compose yourself can suggest a lot about you.

Its one of the questions I've been most asked (In real life) over the years:

What do i wear to an interview?

So here are a few tips that will make you appear organised and professional and potentially increase your chances of getting that new dream job.

Match the formality

It’s always worth knowing the dress code beforehand. If an employer doesn’t specify it in an email, ring them up and ask or do a little research. You don’t want to under-dress as this could suggest you’re not serious enough about wanting the job – if an employer suggest casual clothing, dress smart-casual just in case. Think cardigans and smart skirts but don’t go overboard and wear black boardroom attire. Overdressing is possible in some jobs, particularly those in a creative field or working with children. You may come across to conservative and not friendly or upbeat enough for the role.

Wear a watch

Watches are a great accessory to wear to an interview. They suggest good time management, making you appear more organised (you may be terrible at time management, but a watch will suggest otherwise, so long as you’re not late to the interview😂). You don’t have to fork out on a designer watch – there are plenty of cheap wristwatches that do the job. So long as it’s not scuffed up or damaged, it will help your image.

Shine those shoes

Did you know, many employers still look out for shiny shoes. Why? Taking the time to polish your shoes beforehand shows that you’ve taken time to prepare and not just slipped on the first pair of shoes you can find before going out the door. Employers like an applicant that has spent time preparing for the interview as it shows a passion to get that job. Ironing clothes and putting on make-up similarly shows that you’re a forward planner.

Bring a brolly

You don’t want to turn up to your interview looking like a drowned rat because you didn’t prepare for the rain. An umbrella is a great tool for showing that you’re organised and that you plan for disasters. Hats may similarly be able to stop wind from blowing your hair around. Just make sure that they’re not the type of hat that leaves you with hat hair which is never a good look frankly (a bit of volume mousses can work wonders).

Avoid overly distracting clothing

It’s okay to have bold statement piece. In fact, a brightly coloured item of clothing or a piece of jewellery or patterned cardigan may make you more memorable as a candidate and is a great way to show a bit of your personality through your clothing. However, avoid overly complicated clothing choices that could stop an employer from being able to concentrate on what you’re saying or take you seriously. You want to be seen and heard and not to distract them from your qualities with something that is possibly inappropriate (hello mini skirt/bodycon dress.. perhaps just keep those for another occasion) I would say, avoid slogans, faux leather and faux fur and sportswear.. just as a guideline 😉

All in all, just try to be the best version of yourself. Think of what you would want to see from a person who is going for the job and don't forget to smile (which i actually once did forget to do.. instead i hyperventilated in a board room.. yeh.. i've had my fair share of bad interviews too)

*Post written in happy collaboration*

My Day at Harauka and Top Picks for the Season (& #Passion4Fashion Link-Up)

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Fri, 17 Nov 2017 06:00:00 +0000

On Monday i took a trip across the bridge and went to Glastonbury for the day to visit and hang out at Haruka.

So what is Haruka i hear you ask?
Haruka is a boutique filled with a veritable array of colour, texture and pattern of original designs and creations.
Each piece (apart from 3 other brands also sold in store) are designed by the owner Amanda.
Haruka is named after her son, i would say the store and brand is also like another child to her, and rightfully so. Amanda has created something extremely special and i'm going to try and explain why.

The shop is filled with beautiful, flattering and diverse pieces, items that you won't find on the High street or probably see another lady in them ( You know that awkward moment when you get to a gathering and there's someone rocking the same H&M/M&S/Next dress as you.. well none of that here!) Each piece is limited edition, painstakingly designed with ethically sourced fabric and handcrafted by artisans from Nepal and India who have become friends from years of working together.
Amanda regularly travels to India and Nepal to be with the creators of her pieces and to spend time overseeing the production process.

The thing I think i'm trying to get across is this: When you wear a Haruka piece you feel amazing. You feel the quality of the fabric, you feel the time that's gone in to making it, you feel the design come to life and the passion that has gone in to each and every stitch from its designer, Amanda.

You aren't just wearing another mass produced item off of a rail. You're wearing a one of a kind design and creation.
It feels special.
These are items that will be with you and stand the test of time, not just a passing fad or trend. This will be a piece that will see you through the good times and the bad, special occasions or daily wears. This is a piece that wants to be worn again and again.
And you feel it, you really do.

Haruka is a not just a shop, but a way of life that i honestly think we should all be embracing more:

"Our collections are designed to build upon each other year after year, so that treasured favourites can be mixed and matched with new pieces. We use natural fibres, in rich earthy shades, some of them woven especially for us to our own specification of weight, composition and colour. Other fabrics are sourced from the surplus market, using materials that the fashion industry would otherwise throw away. This allows us to get creative, and add spice to our range with limited edition pieces."

Amazing right?
Inside the shop i experienced first hand what its like to be a Haruka Customer. I saw ladies coming in with low expectations of finding anything that would fit or look good on them, only to then leave with a full outfit, beaming smile and a happy heart.
Each person who arrived at Haruka left with something.
And that was incredible to see.

After talking with Amanda and feeling so inspired by her passion I scoured the rails and wanted SO many items. What i first thought was a fully bohemian collection soon turned my expectations upside down (in a good way!). The thing i noticed throughout is that there is something for everybody, whether that be style, body type or age, there is a design that will look and fit you like a dream.
So i hot footed it to the changing room with an arm full of beauties to play dress up, and these are my findings:

1. Silk & Jersey Mermaid Dress

Coming in at number one had to be the red dress i had been looking for my entire adult life. Designed and sculpted to flatter, it was an absolute dream to wear. The soft jersey fabric made this comfy and wearable, yet the silk made the dress feel luxurious and special. The combination of fabrics made this dress simply exceptional.

I posted this on Insta and many ladies were interested in it for a possible Christmas day dress.. Yes yes yes.., it is the perfect Christmas dress; the fluted skirt that sways when you walk will make you feel magnificent, yet the soft stretchy fabric will also allow for as many bucks fizz and mince pies as you require.

Shop the dress here

2. Sequin & Wool Siren Skirt

A very close second favourite was the stunning maxi skirt.
When i first picked this up i was pleasantly surprised to feel how heavy and luxe the fabric feels, it it felt sturdy and provided excellent coverage of the legs unlike some flimsy maxi skirts. Its made of wool and sequin and because of this combination the fall of the skirt is perfection.
It hangs beautifully.
The quality is of course outstanding.
I love this with a sweater like above and below, but would also work well with a silk cami for a special occasion.
Shop the skirt here

3. Estrella Sequin Jumpsuit

This is such a fab on trend item, but as with Harukas ethos could be worn each year and to many a special occasion.
The stretchy jersey fabric adds a slim fit without feeling restrictive, the deep midnight blue makes it look luxe and will suit many different colourings and be much less harsh than black.
This is party season perfection, especially if you don;t like to get your legs out come winter. The sparkle sash and edging really just scream 'PARTY SEASON'. Add in some silver boots and you will be festive season ready. I love that this would work for a house party or a formal party, either way, it just works.
Shop the jumpsuit here

4. Artemis Jacket

A perfect 'Does all the talking' jacket. Ideal for days when you want to keep the rest of your outfit simple.
the first thing i noticed was hoe flattering it is tho the hips and waist. I'm a pear shape, so for me it didn't emphasise my larger area, it skimmed and brought the eye to the front with the gorgeous waterfall style rather than highlighting my hips.
I love the idea of this with blue jeans and a white tee and red boots. The perfect little jacket.
Shop it here

5. Seed of Life Coat

The type of coat you could wear for the entire season and would work with dresses and jeans equally well. I don't own a coat that can work well with both, but this could. I loved the juxtaposition between sharp tailoring and feminine cut of this coat, which is exactly why it works well with many an outfit.
The cut of the hem is exactly why it will work well over dresses, which is one heck of a hard thing to do, but this dress does.
Alternatively rock it over jeans like me here and swish the attached scarf for a bit of instant glam.
Shop the Coat here

6. Cowlneck Lambswool Jumper

Its red.. of course i'm going to love it, but honestly i don't think i've ever loved a jumper so much. Its soft and not itchy, it can be worn a few different ways and its nipped in waist makes this one heck of a flattering number. It comes with a rather fab detachable obi style belt (below right) which can either be tied around or left off (Amanda said she sometimes even adds it to different dresses too, which is fun), i left mine off as i like to do a front tuck. It also has a gigantic cowl which can be brought up over your head and keep your ears warm (perfect for the dog walks then 😉) If you're looking for investment knitwear, this could be the one!
Shop it here
The waistcoat below was also a fab little try on that i would never have normally tried. Needless to say i am a total waistcoat convert!

Small brands like Haruka often don't get the recognition online that they deserve as the atmosphere and quality is often not conveyed as its a tricky thing to capture, but i hope i've articulated just how special it was to experience a brand with not only great ethics but also fantastic creations.
I hope you'll all follow Haruka and show some some internet support to the brand by giving them a follow on Instagram or/and Facebook.

Whats your favourite item from what i've shown you?

Much Love

An InLinkz Link-up

Spots and Dots and the Beauty of Autumn

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Tue, 14 Nov 2017 13:00:00 +0000

I apologise now for how many photos i used in this post, but when autumn is in full swing and the light is golden and the leaves are making a beautiful rust carpet, well i just couldn't resist.
Soon it will turn to sludge and the trees will be completely bare and barren. But for now i'm lapping up every second of this glorious season.

I've been on a mission to add more tops, that aren't stripes, in to my wardrobe. Pieces that are a bit more interesting and instantly bring a bit of jazz to plain old jeans. I'm pretty sure i filled my quota with this outfit.. more details below

Spotty Blouse

Whilst virtually meandering around the White Stuff site i quickly saw how many fantastic tops, tee's and tunics they do.

This Collarless Blyth top really caught my eye for a few reasons. I loved that it wasn't striped for a starters (as much as love me some stripes i really don't need any more!) and the sporadic dotty print was different and pretty.

The neutral background and the colours chosen for the dots makes this top really easy to remix with lots of other colours, and therefore a big thumbs up from me. I do love a remixable item. I think this would look great tucked in to a denim a line skirt or a little faux leather black skirt and thick tights and boots and finsihed with a big chunky burgundy cardigan.. lush.

The relaxed vibe was also another pull for me. I like that it can be worn tucked in as a front tuck at the waist or worn loose and flowing (needless to say food babies can be well hid underneath making this even more of a winner in my food loving heart!)

I had mulitple comments that day when i went out for lunch wearing it. Its eye catching and just a really great top (sizes are selling out fast so snap one up if you are keen)

Coat

I nearly sold this coat two weeks ago. I just wasn't reaching for it as much as my other beloved coats.

You know me, i'm more of a primary colours and bolds type of gal, so this blush/salmon pink was a bit out of my comfort zone, and yet i did really like it (i paid £79 for it earlier this year and i know i loved it when i bought it). When the White Stuff top arrived i pulled the coat out and they just worked really well together and suddenly i was super glad i hadn't sold it on 😀

I'm still trying to find other ways to wear it, but for now its staying in my coat armoury.

Boots

The boots were the second thing i received from White Stuff. Did you know they did fabulous footwear?? (I didn't!)

If you're in the market for a great all rounder boot, you know the type that goes with everything day to day and are comfortable too, then these are the boots for you.

I trotted around in the Burgundy Sky Block heel boots from 8 am last Friday, and it was a day with plenty of trotting too. I walked to lunch around Penarth town and then back again, also the school run and to the bank and shops. So yes. Lots of walking (I'm talking well over 10,000 steps on the old fitbit) and all in these boots.

Comfy and stylish, good heeled boots are always worth every penny in my books and these will definitely be my go to over the next few months. Plus the colour is excellent for going with any colour you're wearing,

Finishing Touches

I finished the look by going the navy route with indigo skinny jeans, my navy baker boy hat and navy Laura Ashley bag (which is currently on sale for a tiny price of £28!.. i got asked last week if it was a Mulberry as apparently it looks just like the new range!)

And finally a gorgeous simple gold necklace from Stacks And Stones. This is the mini lightning bolts and its a perfect fitting necklace that sits at the base of the neck. I've had so many compliments on this, ideal for a stocking filler as they come with lovely packaging too (and shes a bad ass mum boss too!)

Have you bought any funky tops lately?

Crushing on A Crushed Velvet Midi Skirt (& #Passion4Fashion Linkup)

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Fri, 10 Nov 2017 06:00:00 +0000

Do you remember me mentioning last week that i put an outfit on recently that my husband hated with a passion (he was funny about it, hes not a total knob 😂) an outfit i put on so i therefore changed in to the tartan dress? Well this is in fact the outfit the outfit that he detested so. So much to the point he actually asked me "do you even know what you look like" and proceeded to take a photo on his phone to show me (Just a note here, my husband Salvatore, isn't horrible i promise, lol! We are incredibly close and honest with each other and talk constantly, we're a very chatty, conversational couple who shares everything and so his passing of comment on this outfit wasn't him being horrible it was just banter that had us both rolling around the floor laughing... just thought i'd better clear that up before you all started thinking he was an ogre haha!)

I said to him that i bet him it would photograph well and that the lovely ladies of Instagram would love it.. He disagreed.

Man oh man do i wish i'd put money on it.

Turns out it is my most liked photo to date.

With 659 likes to date i took absolute great pleasure in calling him out on it.

We both laughed so much at it and he agreed, that maybe i do actually know what i'm doing.

Oh it felt good to be right, haha!

But it does once again go to show that whats another mans trash is another mans treasure of an outfit.

This outfit for me is just amazing. Its comfy, its on trend and i felt fabulous in it, even after the banter from the husband.

Shop The Look:

So what do you think?
Was he right or are you in my camp of 'love this outfit'?

An InLinkz Link-up

My 5 Guilty Pleasures!

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 15:25:00 +0000

Ohhhh guilty Pleasures, we alllll have them don't we? Something we perhaps don't like to admit out-loud, whether that be crappy books, watching the Kardashians or eating a whole tube of Pringles. These are Guilty pleasures!
I'm divulging all mine in today's vlog! Come and let me know what yours are. I'm tagging some other ladies who i love to watch too to see what their guilty pleasures are!

The lifelong commitment: Choosing your ideal wedding ring

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Mon, 06 Nov 2017 15:15:00 +0000

Engagements and weddings are getting more and more popular at this time of year, with no weather guarantees through summer, couples are choosing the autumnal months and the festive seasons to exchange their vows.

Amongst choosing the venue, the flowers and the photographer, we might momentarily forget about the most important part of the wedding day – the rings.

It can be difficult to choose the ideal wedding ring, you want it to match with your engagement ring and be a perfect style for you. With so many different types of cut, colour, clarity and carat to choose from, it can be a daunting task before the big day arrives.

We have teamed up with Angelic Diamonds, specialists in solitaire engagement rings and advocates of beautiful jewellery, to provide you with some advice when choosing your wedding ring.

The sparkle of the diamond

The cut is the most important part of your ring’s diamond. This is because the cut has the greatest influence on the diamond’s sparkle, meaning the better the cut, the more the diamond will sparkle on your wedding day.

A diamond may seem perfect if it has the clarity and colour grade that you are looking for – but without a suitable cut, it can still seem dull.

A diamond’s cut all depends on its light performance and the way that it sparkles. So, the perfect ring with an ideal diamond cut will not be too shallow or too deep, and it will allow light to pass through it so that it reflects evenly throughout the diamond.

The colour

When considering the perfect wedding ring, the colour of the diamond is important too. The colour of all the diamonds may look the same, but they are graded differently.

You can buy a diamond without colour on a budget too – chose a near-colourless diamond that is graded between G-H. After purchasing a ring with this grade, colour won’t be detectable to the naked eye – making your diamond look flawless on the day. Colour in diamonds appears as a pale yellow, so if this is evident anywhere in the ring you are thinking about buying, we would recommend avoiding it.

Clarity – the imperfections

The clarity of the diamond is very important, this refers to any imperfections in the diamond which are also known as inclusions. The less inclusions in the ring, the better the clarity, which means your wedding ring will shine bright no matter where you are.

Don’t fret too much over this, as small imperfections in the diamond are not easily seen by the naked eye or in photos. By purchasing an SI (slightly included) quality diamond, you’re able to buy something visually stunning, without having to pay the cost of a diamond that contains no inclusions and no imperfections.

The weight of the diamond

Although many people believe that the carat is the size of the diamond, it is actually the weight. The cut of the diamond can change how large the carat weight appears. Ensure that you get a good balance of both so that your ring sits well on your finger but also provides you with the shine and sparkle to make heads turn.

Handy tips

As well as the four tips we have mentioned, there are more things to look out for when choosing your ring:

If carat weight is important to you, consider a diamond with a good cut, with an SI1-SI2 clarity and an I or J colour grade.
Keep in mind that based on the size of your finger, the larger the diamond will appear.
Not all ring fittings will fit all diamond carats and shapes, so it’s important to consider what type of diamond shape you’d like before choosing its design.

Collaborative post, thank you for supporting RTH and the brands that work with me

October Favourites Vlog

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Sun, 05 Nov 2017 09:52:00 +0000

Happy Sunday Ladies,

Hope you're all having a fantastic weekend!

Ive just published my October favourites.. how oh how is it November already??

This months faves include some fashion fashion, some food and some films.

Would love you to grab a cuppa and have a watch (and subscribe too if you could!!)

And be sure to let me know, what have you loved this month?

Tartan Dress & OTK Boots ( & #Passion4Fashion Linkup)

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Fri, 03 Nov 2017 06:00:00 +0000

Who do you dress for? Do you dress for yourself alone, for your husband or partner, is it dress for other ladies approval or situation dictated like work etc, or is it a bit of all of these things on different days?

I've been pondering this question of late as I had a funny experience with a couple of very different outfits.

This week i had a bit of time with Salvatore, one day i walked down the stairs in a pleated midi skirt and sweater only to see him burst in to laughter at my apparently funny outfit, he compared me to Olive from Popeye and declared that my outfit clashed and that i must be loosing the plot(all said in jest of course, he knows i wear what the hell i like and the man has seen some bizarre outfits from me over the years, you only have to look through my archives for that proof 😂. )

The very next day i walked down the stairs in this outfit, short step hem dress, tie waist and Over The Knee boots. I had a much better reception from the husband with exclamation of "wow, you look great" and "Now that suits you".It made me giggle.

That day i noticed i had observational looks from the opposite sex more than i normally have, which is uhh never, and again i giggled to myself.

It seems cliched really. Men still love the short dress, the "kinky boots" and the sexy feminine vibes.

Me? Well i prefer my midi velvet skirt and thick cosy jumper. Ladies who follow me on instagram will often love the outfits i do and the husband hates.. it seems we really are from different planets when it comes to getting dressed.

I don't dress for male approval and love to express my personalty through my clothes. Don't get me wrong i loved this outfit, i did indeed buy it all and put it together, but i sure as hell didn't style it for a mans approval.

This is of course not to say that if you do dress to please your other half that that is a bad thing, i loved making my husband happy and seeing his delight in my outfit choice, but its just not something i aim for regularly.

We are all very very different.

But i have to say, it was really interesting to see two different reactions in the space of two days.

So ladies, who do you dress for?

Outfit details:
Dress
Boots
Biker Jacket

An InLinkz Link-up

Cosy Knitwear and Comfy Jeans

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Happy 1st November lovelies!
It has finally dropped temps here in Wales meaning i am completely drawn to knitwear like a moth to a flame.
My shopping habits with Knitwear haven't always been healthy as i have been known to have one to many flings with one to many knits. I have been a knitwear hussy.
I have given so many jumpers and cardigans away to charity and theres still a load in my loft as i usually bore very very easily of them. I'm not entirely sure why🤔.
But after my month long shopping ban was lifted and the temperatures dropped around the same time, i knew it would be wise to buy a couple of new jumpers, and it would have to be something i loved for me to not have just a one night stand with it. So shopping i went. And jumpers i found. One being this one today.. and i'm pleased to say, it is most definitely knitwear love.

Here's todays outfit in full

The Coat

The coat is possibly one of my favourite (Top 3 at least) and is from La Redoute earlier this year, think it was back in January or February when i honestly thought i wasn't going to get much wear out of it that side of Spring. Turns out i did and it also turns out i'm still besotted with it 6 months on. My husband is not a big fan (in his words, "It does nothing for you" .. What does he know right?!) but that kind of makes me love it all the more. This coat is a slouchy relaxed style that makes it sublimely comfortable and accommodates chunky knitwear easily underneath it without making me feel like the circulation to my arms is being cut off. Its also like a giant cuddle. Whats not to love right? Its also a divine emerald green colour.

This year they have one in pine green that looks lovely and comfy too: Check that new version out

-here-

The Sweater

So knowing that i've previously been a knitwear hussy i took to my shopping with a more sensible head and took in to consideration what i needed and only picked up things i love love loved.

This sweater by Next was on my lust list since September. When #NoSpendOctober was in affect it was still on my mind and on the odd occasion i went in to next (for research purposes) i saw this hanging there and still really wanted it. Four weeks on i still loved it and therefore thought it would make sense to buy it, as the fact i still wanted it and it wasn't a passing whim, was a very good sign indeed.

And i have to say, i love it, i really do. You know me, give me a stripe and i'm a happy girl, so blocks of colour in these glorious shades was definitely a winner for me.

I love that it has multiple colours as it means i will be able to remix it well with other trousers and jeans, and this of course, makes me super happy.

I also feel nice when i wear it, which doesn't happen often with knitwear., but this makes me smile.

The funnel neck is also flattering too and i love that it is comfy, i find high neck/turtle neck/ roll necks a little restricting sometimes, but this is just right.

-Shop the jumper here-

The Jeans

The jeans are also a new purchase after my no spend month. I soon realised that i didn't like a great deal of my jeans. With a bit (ok a lot) of weight gain over the past 6 months and the sudden dislike on my behalf of super skinny jeans, i knew i wanted something comfy and looser fitting as i honestly find the skinny style just doesn't suit my pear shape anymore.

-These Grey Straight leg jeans- again from next, grabbed my attention as i was flitting past them one day. They were the only pair on the rail and they were in my size. They looked like a nice loose fit and they were a great light grey.. I picked them up and was shocked at how soft the denim was, it felt like they had been worn the perfect amount to make them in to those perfect jeans that are like old friends.

Needless to say they came home me and i've barely wanted to remove them from my legs.

Hello new favourite jeans!!

Finishing Touches

I finished the look with my trusty comfy Gucci dupe loafers which were such a great buy as i wear them allll the time. My -tassel earrings- are from zalando and bring a nice berry colour to the look.

The bag is my Michael Kors, which after a year of not using, i've fallen back in love with and can't stop using it. Its just the perfect size for throwing no end of stuff in to.

And -the belt-, well another Gucci inspired High street take on their famous GG belt, which i'm quite happy to take the dupe of.

And there we have it. Outfit of comfy loveliness that i will no doubt be wearing on repeat!

Are you a knitwear floozy like i was? Or do you always get a lot of wear out of whatever knitwear you buy?

Chatty Everyday Makeup Vlog

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Hello Lovelies,

First up, Happy Monday to you!
I held off uploading this as the lighting is so terrible (hello wintry dark dank days!), but my husband literally made me upload it.. and i mean pinned me down until i agreed to do it... hes supportive like that 😂
But the thing to remember, just like when i first started blogging i guess, is that we all start somewhere and amateur vlogging is making a comeback apparently haha!
Anyway, my everyday makeup routine is here for your perusal.
Enjoy (and subscribe too, that would be swell!)

Autumnal Florals ( & #Passion4Fashion Linkup)

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Fri, 27 Oct 2017 05:00:00 +0000

Oh Autumn, you are magnificent. The palette of dreams and the feeling of change in the air is something i will never grow tired of and is the reason why Autumn is my favourite season. The fact that the fashion for autumn is always magnificent may also have something to do with it too, as i am a girl who lives for beautiful boots, gorgeous chunky knitwear and captivating coats.

I've teamed up with Great Plains this week and chosen my favourite items for autumn.

Florals for Autumn

I think I am a girl who actually prefers a dark floral palette than summery toned florals. For me they are intrinsically more wearable, a little less pretty-pretty and more approachable and re-mixable.

This gorgeous floral print ruffle skirt is autumn personified. The dark colours contrast beautifully with the frilly cut of the skirt making this such a wonderful item to dress up or down and has the girly cut mixed perfectly with the navy and copper print. Because there are a number of colours in this skirt, all based on a neutral background of navy, it means there are many different remixing options to be worn with it.

I love the idea of mixing in some greys or creams for the top half or also adding in some burgundy, whether that be with a coat or some boots. All of those colours will just make this skirt sing!

Knitwear

Is there anything more wonderful than an autumnal coloured jumper/sweater?!
I have to say i am a knitwear floozy and flirt with different jumpers regularly, but this rusty orange jumper with swing sleeves has barely left my back since it arrives. Some days i've even been getting home and changing out of that days outfit, opting for comfort indoors of course, and popping on some comfy leggings and this gorgeously comfy mohair jumper.
Be sure to check out the great selection of ladies jumpers Great Plains has, because if this beauty is anything to go by, then they're fabulous i can assure you.
As well as working seamlessly with the skirt (and my indoor leggings for loungin' around!) this jumper works perfectly with jeans and also culottes. I plan on wearing it with my navy culottes and baker boy hat really soon.

Finishing Touches

I added some black in to the mix with my boots and jacket, as i love navy and contrasting black at the moment.

The biker jacket always lends a touch of toughness to a girly look. which for me, is the ideal balance of feminine and masculine in an outfit.

One of my favourite styles right now is knee high boots and midi skirts. It's a revival of that 70's look that never goes out of fashion and, I find, makes wearing skirts extremely practical and easy(no legs on show, no worries about tights, legs covered from the cold.. the practicalities go on).

The navy bag and bobble earrings finish the look and bring in all the colours from throughout the outfit.

My favourite Autumnal outfit so far this season, and i can't wait to wear each piece separately too.
What are you favourite items to wear in autumn?

Shop The Look:
Jumper
Skirt
Boots: super old so i've been eyeing up those linked as a replacement
Biker: Try this
Navy Bag: Laura Ashley

*In collaboration with the wonderful brand Great Plains who i throughly enjoy working with and showcasing their gorgeous pieces to you.

An InLinkz Link-up

Discussion: The growing trend of androgynous fashion

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 13:57:00 +0000

Fashion is inherently creative and forward-thinking. Ahead of the times and constantly reflecting societal changes, clothing is going through a transformation of gender-neutrality that is reinventing how we look at women’s fashion. Alongside Trilogy, a London-based boutique, we explore how – and why – women are opting to fill their wardrobes with traditionally men’s clothing styles.

Fashion freedom

Climbing the career ladder and becoming a success in our professions seems to be more important now than ever before. However, many men are still holding various managerial positions and some women find it is difficult to get noticed at work. By dressing in more masculine pieces of clothing, such as a suit, this can break down the differences between men and women and allow for a more equal playing field.

A bonus is the versatility of the suit, which helps eliminate buying multiple outfits or spending time picking one out on a morning. A couple of pairs of trousers, few shirts and a blazer or two is easily mixed and matched to create a new outfit with minimal effort.

Fresh outlook

Now, we’re seeing clothing tailored to the individual, not the gender. And like we said earlier, fashion imitates society. American media company, Fusion, carried out a survey and discovered that 50% of individuals claimed gender was not limited to male and female. Could it be this shift in attitude that has led to a growing number of women feeling more comfortable in adding stereotypically men’s clothing to their wardrobe?

Aside from the suit, other examples of women’s fashion inspired by traditional male clothing, include designer boyfriend jeans. The popularity of these on the high street has risen recently, perhaps partly due to public figures encouraging the gender-neutral shift. From snaps of Jaden Smith wearing skirts to rapper Young Thug’s public claims that there is no “such thing as gender”, androgynous fashion is supported far beyond the catwalk. And it’s not limited to adult fashion. Even Teen Vogue offers an advice column on gender identity.

How to make genderless fashion work for you

If you want in on the trend, a suit is a great way to feel confident and stylish. To make the most of this look, try ankle-skimming trousers with a slim-fit jacket, teamed with an open-collar shirt. Trousers, the most traditional of all men’s clothing, can actually make you look taller, too. Christine Lagarde, head of the International Monetary Fund, is a notable figure when it comes to power dressing, often pictured in a pair of slim-fit navy trousers, with a matching blazer and neck-tie.

Going for the casual look? Designer boyfriend jeans are a good style to opt for — and really comfortable! The looser, the better – but try to get a pair that are tapered at the leg when you can. To complement this look, try an oversized t-shirt tucked in at one side, helping to complement your figure and give your style credentials a boost.

It looks like gender-neutral clothing is a trend set to stick around. I think its something that i personally love to dabble with by adding one of two pieces in to my outfit.

Is this a trend you would try?

Images via Pintrest

Work in collaboration :)

Polka Dot Maxi Dress (& #Passion4Fashion Linkup)

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Fri, 20 Oct 2017 05:00:00 +0000

Next to stripes and leopard print, polka dots are a big pattern love of mine, in-fact i really feel i don't own enough polka dots and need some more in my life, and at the moment they're having a bit of a fashion thing so there are lots of lovely options out there.

I picked -this maxi dress- up at the very beginning of September and then left it there hanging, just longing to be worn. Sometimes i categorise my clothing in to 'Places i can wear it', which is silly of course, but then sometimes i am a bit silly i guess. So this dress was in my silly mental category of 'Lunch with the girls' and due to busy schedules that day didn't come around until this week.
But oh i was so glad it did as firstly, the company and food were of course wonderful, and secondly it was great to wear this dress out for the first time. I paired the navy polka dot maxi with black, which is definitely a favourite combination of mine (I know some people cringe at black and navy together but i absolutely love it) and layered a cami under and wore tights and boots as the autumn chill has certainly snuck in this week.

That's the great thing about winter maxi dresses, you can layer under and over and there is no need to be cold or sacrifice wearing lovely dresses. Its a win win!

And just to talk boots for a second: if you're looking for a small block heel comfy sock boot that doesn't go too far up the calf (i find some of them can be very unflattering!) then the ones -i'm wearing here -are from asos and they are amazingly comfy and very flattering!

Are you a fan of polka dots?

Shop Polka Dot Dress Options

Outfit Details:
Mango Dress
Biker Jacket
Bag
Asos Black sock Boots
Lola Rose Green bracelet

An InLinkz Link-up

Life Hacks: How To Make Your Diamond Ring Sparkle

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Thu, 19 Oct 2017 11:46:00 +0000

We wouldn’t dream of putting on the same outfit day after day without washing it, yet it rarely enters our minds to consider cleaning our jewellery.

Jewellery we wear on our hands, like diamond rings, are especially vulnerable to picking up dirt and grime as time goes on. Solitaire diamonds, for example, are often worn as engagement rings every day, so are worryingly even more likely to get grubby and lose their shine.

It’s essential to clean diamond rings properly to avoid damage and keep this valuable piece of jewellery in its best condition for as long as possible. So, how do you spruce up your diamond ring and restore its shop-bought shine?

Where to start

Remember to focus on the back of the ring setting and not just the stone when cleaning. The ring’s setting is the section that sits on your finger, and as you can imagine, collects the most grime. Not only does this make the entire ring look dirty after time, but the setting can also cause skin irritation if left.

Different ways to clean your diamond ring

Equipment

To begin, you need to use the right equipment to make sure you don’t cause any damage. The best thing for cleaning a diamond is a cheap, soft bristled toothbrush — similar to one you might buy for a child to use. The bristles will allow you to properly clean around all diamond facets and types of settings, while not harming the shine of the stone.

Baking soda

Standard baking soda is an answer to many cleaning problems for diamond solitaire rings that you can pick up at the supermarket. When combined with water to form a thick paste, it becomes an effective cleaning solution for the stone and metal settings. Just remember to rinse the ring with warm water to remove any residue after you’re finished.

Alcohol

Yes, there’s another handy purpose for alcohol. A strong, clear, grain-based alcohol — like vodka or gin — is a fast and effective solution for cleaning diamonds. The science behind it is that the high level of ethanol is a natural solvent that will chemically remove any stray dirt on the surface of the diamond or trapped inside the setting of the ring.

Soap and water

If you want something even simpler to clean your diamond ring in a hurry, how about soap and water? Any household soap, including hand soap or washing up liquid, will do. As with other cleaning jobs, leaving the jewellery to soak is preferable, because this helps to loosen solidified particles in hard-to-reach areas.

Professional cleaning

Then again, you can always cut out the work and get your diamond ring professionally cleaned by a jeweller. This is arguably the best and most thorough method of cleaning diamond solitaire rings, and a decent jeweller will also check the diamond’s settings, as well as use an ultrasonic system to clean it. An ultrasonic system is a specialised tank filled with liquid. The jewellery is submersed and high-frequency sound waves are used to disturb and remove tiny dirt particles from almost unreachable parts of the jewellery. Some jewellery companies, like AC Silver, offer free services that will make sure your ring stays sparkling, too.

Hopefully, you have a few tips here to get your diamond ring back to its gleaming best. Make sure you stay clear of bleach or any corrosive solution. These can damage your precious diamond and its metal setting — and it could be irreversible.

Working in a happy Collaboration

#NoSpendOctober Over Halfway

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Wed, 18 Oct 2017 10:58:00 +0000

A couple of weeks a go I published a post Not keeping Up with the Instajones': Stopping the constant buying and it seemed to resonate with, well, quite a lot of ladies.
I was happy to find out i wasn't alone on this but sad to find out that actually so very many of us constantly feel the need to keep up, keep shopping and making those purchases week after week, leaving many items unworn and unloved.
Women are renowned for only wearing a small percentage of the clothes they hold in their wardrobe, but with social media constantly showing us new pretty goods, the temptation to shop gets too much and we end up falling in to the habit of buy, buy, buy.
After talking about this to some ladies on Insta we formed our #NoSpendOctober group and hashtag and have not shopped for the month of October so far.
Now for those of you who have been around these parts with me for some time you'll know i've previously taken it upon myself to do exercises like this before, with two lots of #100daynospend (not consecutively i might add) and a whole year with a seasonal capsule wardrobe I know how it feels to not shop, to limit myself and to walk away from the beautiful dress thats just begging to come with you.
But the reason for me doing it this time was slightly different, as mentioned in my the previous post, i don't want to have to feel the need to keep buying the latest instagram trends all the time. I don't want to feel like i'm not as good as so and so if i don't have X in my wardrobe. And just to clarify, no one is making me feel like this apart from me. It was also a case of showing that i don't always have money or the need to justify new clothes every week. I have plenty of things i love and need to get the wear out of them.

And so here we are half way through, and as much as its not been super difficult (we've had lots on in the house with decorating and things) I would be lying if i said i don't want to shop.
The non shopping has made me evaluate what i have and what i dont have, what i need vs what i want, and that's certainly a good thing.
I've mentioned before, but i am an emotional shopper, and that goes for any emotion; Happy, i shop with glee, sad or feeling down, i shop to cheer myself up, proud or elated, i shop congratulatory to myself... you get the point.
As always though, tis been good to get some wear out of what i already own and take enjoyment in the fact that i have not spent a penny so far this month on clothes.

In total there are approximately 80-100 wonderful ladies doing #NoSpendOctober and they are all doing a mighty fine job too.
It has been an absolute pleasure to see so many ladies from so many different walks of life come together to support and encourage each other. Its also lovely to see how many of us are so like minded with our shopping habits and to not feel bad or alone in this.
And even if there have been some hiccups along the way, then we are just getting straight back on the no spend wagon with no judgement, just encouragement. Sometimes the justification of buying X makes complete sense, why would you walk away from something that you have longed for and is now half off... that would just be lunacy 😂.
This month is just about creating better spending habits going forward, less knee jerk purchases and more thoughtful spending. Its about working with what you have and adding in what you need, but obviously the occasional special item is ok too as, after all, you only live once 😉

I've created a link up below for all those wanting to add your instagram links so we can all go around and see each other and follow if you so wish.
Please add your link below (its super easy to do, click the blue add link button and instructions are given, or gimme a message and i can add you!)

But thank you ladies, you are all amazing.

An InLinkz Link-up

Come Shop With Me: Skirts

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel The Hat) — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 16:25:00 +0000

With #NoSpendOctober in full swing (more on that in Wednesdays post) I have been wearing all things that i already own (obvs) and with no new items in the old wardrobe it has given me fresh eyes to see what i may be lacking in, what my wardrobe needs and what i don't need any more of.

One of those things is skirts. I don't have many at all and yet they are game changers when it comes to remixing. My problem is that i love buying dresses, but really a dress can only be remixed a couple of ways, and yes that all fine and good to keep wearing them the same two ways but being able to remix something multiple ways usually means I will get more wear out of it because, well, that to me is useful!

So skirt window shopping i went. Now i am super super fussy when it comes to skirts, hence why i don't have many. I usually find shops to be lacking in anything majorly gorgeous in the skirt department and there's never many i love enough for me to want to buy it.

Well guess what.. Skirts just got more interesting! Skirts seem to be in abundance this season and d'you know what there are some mighty fine options out there ladies!

Here are my findings and favourites:

{Print Pleated Skirt}Next

I started with Next as their gorgeous window display drew me in. Inside there shop was split in to pinks and greys(which were lovely) and autunmal reds rusts and greys.

These two (above and below) had me swooning as soon as i walked through those doors.

The pleated skirt is quite a thick density of fabric which makes the pleats fairly rigid and fall well, but at the same time it was very comfy and hung perfectly as a skirt should.

Below was the skirt that made me swoon BIG time. The fabric is a soft satin type finish that glides and doesn't cling, the colour is a soft rust and the flow of the skirt is beautiful. It was swishy, And therefore my swishy loving heart feels this could be true love. It worked perfectly well with my boots and the black fine knit that i was wearing, but i think with a breton, a blazer and shoes or even an orange sweater, a denim shirt or a big cable knit cardigan this could prove to be an incredible asset to your wardrobe!

{Tan Maxi Skirt}Next

A little bit of fun with some black lace and netting, i love that this can be dressed up or down and even though its a bit of mesh/tulle it could easily be worn in day or night time and it was very comfy.

{Black Mesh Skirt}Next

Khaki A line

This was a gorgeous khaki a line skirt, i like the idea of this for smart day time but also really nice for weekend wear too

I then headed to M&S and, once again, i was spoiled for choice!

So the pleated midi velvet skirt is just the most wonderful fabric; stretchy, thick, and vibrant.

The skirt comes in red, gold or navy and i literally could not decide which was my favourite.

Again, these would work so well for so many occasions, dress them up, dress them down add some stripes or add some sparkle, trainers or boots they just work so very well.

But what colour would you go for??

For me the red is just christmas and festive season personified. The gold is so cheerful and daring yet will work with many things, but my head says navy is the most practical. I love how it would work with lots i already own.

{M&S Velvet Pleated Midi Skirt in Red, Navy or Gold}

M&S Floral Chiffon Midi

I didn't think i'd like this, but picked it up in the name of interest, it turned out to be really really nice on, it skims and flatters and adds a fun bit of interest. The print is pretty and is an item that does all the talking for you, enabling you to keep everything else pretty simple.

{ M&S Flared lace midi skirt}

This was again something a little different as its not a shape i go for as a hippy pear shaped lady, but it was lovely on. Fitted at the waist and really lady like. I think i a bit to fancy for my day to day but if you're looking for something for office to bar this could be perfect.

{M&S Collection Checked Mini}

And lastly another favourite, just because it fits like a glove. I tend to steer clear of minis these days, opting more for the midis as i find them more wearable (read: not gonna flash my pants) but there was something so gorgeous about this one, something so comfy with its thick fabric and flattering length that made me just love it. But its a statement piece that can't be remixed a whole lot of ways, but still, sometimes that's just what the heart wants.

Other note worthy skirts from M&S that i loved the look of but weren't in my size

Leopard Print A line

Scarf Print Ruffle

Collection Ruffle Midi

Tiered Mesh & Pearl layered Midi

So there we have it, a plethora of divine skirts.
Are you a skirt fan? Do you own many and enjoy wearing them?
Do you like any of these beauties?