From the Office to Happy Hour with T.M. Lewin

So you have a full day ahead at the office but have that Friday feeling as you're having drinks after work. Question is what the hell do you wear?? Now I have to admit I have never worked in an office type of environment but I have a pretty solid idea of what most people wear through getting the train with commuters during early morning rush hour many times.. If I worked in an office I'd want to portray professionalism, elegance but with a hint of fun. However if you're heading out after work to unwind chances are you want to be comfortable too.
T.M. Lewin have a great selection of pieces for finding a great fit but also for any occasion. So you can look ready for the office but also know when it's time to kick back relax and get ready for the weekend. They have many selection of menswear which you can check out here so guys can look sharp for those hectic work days. Seriously the quality and variety of the suits look incredible. They also have a great selection of womenswear too which you can see here.

Barnes Pleat Front Blush Shell Top

Albany Black Tri-Acetate Crop Trousers

Milano Black Jacket

 

I wanted to base my outfit selection on what I would want to wear so I picked pieces from the women's range. I wanted to choose a top that wasn't too formal. At first I thought about how I could incorporate a white shirt as you can style them both in a relaxed and formal way. Shirts are great pieces to smarten up any look. But then I saw this amazing pink blush shell top and thought it was the perfect start. The colour is slightly playful and spring like and is a bit more fun then just going for monochrome colours. Plus pink seems to be the in colour right now. Its still has that sleek professional look with the high neckline but allows a bit more freedom being sleeveless and slightly loose fitting.

I chose the crop black trousers as I think the cropped lengths gives them a bit of a more relaxed vibe. They're still tailored so have the smart professional vibe perfect for the office but seem like they'd be comfortable enough to enjoy a few drinks with too. To go with the trousers I picked a black blazer so it gives the appearance of a suit. However it can easily be taken off after a long day of work for drinks.

A statement necklace can be added to the top after work to make the look a little bit more jazzy, I found this white embellished one from New Look. A small bag that has structure is the perfect accessory for an office to drinks look. The structured look of the bag fits with the tailored vibes and the small size makes it perfect to take out those essentials for a night out.

 

So if you're looking for some office to happy hour outfit inspiration then look no further then T.M. Lewin

After all, its always about getting that balance between working hard and having fun. Cocktails after work anyone??

I Got Sick

 

 

 

 

Coat- Primark

Top- Don Broco Gig

Jeans- Boohoo

Beanie- Topshop

 

I know not the nicest of titles for a post but as you can see it's relevant. I wanted to create an outfit around this top I have been wearing constantly since I got it. Back in December I went to see the band Don Broco at the Brixton Academy in London. I usually don't tend to get merch at gigs but I really wanted a shirt of theirs as I've been listening to them for a couple of years now. I loved this shirt in particular due to the doodle like skull prints all over it. I am massive fan of skulls but have been steering away from them lately as I don't want to be known as the girl who only wears things with skulls on. And breathe... and I Got Sick is a great song form their album Automatic which has been on repeat since I got it for Christmas.

With a band t-shirt I have to wear jeans, classic combination. These boohoo jeans I love, they're a really snug fit I won't lie but I think I can get away with it. The turn ups at the ankles add a bit of fun. Chucked on with a big coat and beanie and I'm ready for the cold weather.

So right now I'm tucked up with a hot water bottle under a blanket watching Pretty Little Liars. I had to come home early from volunteering as I've got such sharp stabbing pains in my rib area. I really hope it goes away soon! Also I appear to be pretty moody in these pictures, guess I need to learn what a smile is.



My Current Favourite Dress

 

 

Dress- New Look

Jacket- George at Asda

Shoes- Topshop

Fedora- Asos

Rings- Empty Casket and random market stall

Bag- New Look

 

Hoorah an outfit post, it's been way too long. I'm trying to incorporate more dresses into my life again as I'm living in jeans as always. Now everyone knows I am a tartan and shirt lover so when I saw this dress I fell in love. It's loose and a decent length, I just hate a dress that just rides up. Plus its made up of a lovely dark shades of blues and reds. I feel really fashionable when wearing it and it's so easy to just put on add a leather jacket and you're ready to go.

My newest purchase is my navy blue fedora, the hats I'm loving are getting bigger and bigger. At first I was a bit scared to wear just caused its really wide brimmed, but I absolutely love it. Plus navy is a classic. The witch ring is an absolute gem, from my favourites at Empty Casket it just adds a hint of my personality without being over the top.

 

And my shoes, showing my love for burgundy, seriously I am obsessed at the moment. They fit in perfectly with the reds on the dress. I bought these thick soled brogues from Topshop as they reminded me of the Dr Marten brogues that I would love to get my hands on but a fraction of the price. Plus it makes a nice change from the mountain of black shoes I own. They are really well made, not the comfiest but I need to break them in a bit more. My small bag is something I always reach for. I call it my gig bag as its perfect for taking in London, its has a zip and folds over so there is no way my belongings are going anywhere out of my site.

I really like this outfit and think its perfect for the Autumn/Winter weather we're experiencing. It makes me feel girly, stylish and a bit grungy, so everything I like then.
Apologies about the bin in the background, not the best thing to look at. Honestly annoyed me so much when editing these. Well I'm off to work for the afternoon, the retail world is getting so busy in the weeks leading up to Christmas, help me!!

My First Pay Day Treats

 

 

So I experienced my first payday a couple of weeks ago and it was a glorious feeling. I feel like I should really be saving at the moment but I just felt like I wanted to experience treating myself with money I'd earned.
I can finally start celebrating the fact Autumn is well on it's way which means one thing, my favourite time of the year is fast approaching (Halloween, Bonfire Night and then Christmas). And of course its going to be coat weather soon, hell to the yeah. New Look are always on point lets be honest but I've found some real gems lately. So I just had to share two items I've got recently.
A camel trench coat is something I have wanted for months. I was randomly people watching whilst waiting for a train c'mon we all do it. Going off topic I saw a girl walk past wearing a trench coat and I just instantly wanted one. Camel isn't a colour I wear a lot but it's something I want to embrace more. I feel like it's a classic piece that will make me look like I've put more effort into throwing together my usual attire of a t-shirt and jeans. I will have to do an outfit post with this soon.
Black shoes, like I don't have enough in my wardrobe. I don't buy heels too often as quite frankly I don't go out anywhere... the most boring 21 year old right. But I saw these shoes on the website with vampy in the title. Now if I could pick any word to describe myself in a perfect world vampy would be it even thought that's not true. But just look how pretty they are man! Peep toe, leather look, chunky heel everything I want. I cannot wait to wear these to my graduation!

September is here, the leaves will start falling. Whilst everyone has the summer blues I'm hopefully going to start to get a little happier.

Dream vs. Reality Festival Fashion

 

Images- Pinterest

 



Festivals in general are my favourite thing about summer. They're everything that I love, live music, people all together and just letting go and forgetting about the stresses that you go through. Festival fashion is such a diverse thing. I thought this post would be quite fun as I've collected photo's from Pinterest of what I would want to wear and look like in my head. Where as in reality you just can't get away with half the things at British festivals. There is no way any of the girls in the photo's above did a whole weekend at a festival. To look that pristine after 3/4 days of camping is just not bloody possible. If it is then what is there secret because I am dieing to know! Reality is everyone get's sweaty, dirty and wet from the rain that is bound to happen at some point. Here's my dream scenario of what I want to where and look like vs. reality:

Dream
*Maxi dresses
*Kimono's
*Fedoras
*Boots
*Perfect beachy waves with head pieces and floral crowns
*Lots of jewellery
*Smelling fresh as a daisy
*Glowing skin

Reality
*Band tee's (not that I'm complaining about that)
*denim, lots of denim
*Waterproof
*Wellies
*Chucking my hair up in a messy bun and wearing a floral crown to hide the fact that dry shampoo doesn't work for me
*Sweaty and dirty skin

Well whatever the case I have way too much planning outfits and can't wait to see what people come up with this year. I'm so excited for Reading now!!

Red Vibes

 

 

 

Ramones T-shirt- Primark

Denim Jacket- New Look

Shorts- New Look

Sandals- New Look

 

This is a pretty New Look heavy outfit hmmm. It's been ages since I've done a proper outfit post but I felt like I wanted to share this one. Anyone that knows me is aware of how often I wear Ramones T-shirts and yes I do listen to them. The Ramones are one of my favourite bands. I guess I kind of collect their t-shirts and this one is the classic design. But the main focal point of this outfit is my red shorts. They just scream festival vibes to me with the pom poms and pattern on them. I love them and they're comfy too so it's just a bonus. Also they are great to just lounge about in at home. The denim jacket is a staple for me during summer, I am living in this one. I love the wash of this jacket and it has a little bit of distressing. My shoes I bought last year and now they are stating to become comfy. I've persisted with them as I think they are too pretty  to not wear (great logic by me as always).  

Being back at home after uni unemployed is a tad frustrating. I've managed to get a small costume making job but I need something regular really. I had a pretty fun week though. I got to see one of my uni friends Sade and we went to see the band Nothing But Thieves. Live they are amazing, check them out if you haven't.


Take Me to the Weekend Festival

 

 

 

 

Dungaree's*- Fat Face

Guns N Roses t-shirt- H&M
Kimono- George at Asda
Yellow Rain coat*- Fat Face

Shoes- Converse

Sunglasses- Asos
 

Now we're entering the summer, weekends can be filled with more outdoor activities. Being the music lover that I am my perfect plan for a summer weekend is going to a festival. It shouldn't be that much of a surprise to you.

Fat Face have launched a new range Take Me to the Weekend that feature clothing that make every weekend an adventure whatever your plans are. And life should be full of adventures right?? I was asked to come up with an outfit/outfits that I would wear to a festival. I am going to Reading festival for the third time thankfully, last year I didn't go and I was so upset. I should probably venture to a different festival at some point in my life.

My plans for Reading are pretty simple:
Set up camp with my mates, have a few ciders, go to the main arena as soon as each day, watch a variety of bands and appreciate the diverse range of music on offer. Oh and look round the stalls there cause the shopper in me needs to have a bit of time to shine. But mainly make some new memories.

When I'm at a festival I get fully involved with the music I'm seeing so I tend to dance quite a bit, put my hands in the air you know the usual thing... So I'm all about comfort. In my head I have these amazing elaborate outfits planned, but in reality I keep it simple. I love denim so when I saw these dungaree's I knew I wanted to give them a try. Maybe they aren't the most practical thing to wear to a festival but I think they are too cute to leave behind. I paired them with a Guns N Roses t-shirt as it's me so a band tee would be involved in some way. Converse are the ultimate comfort shoe, I would probably wear some wellies as well but currently don't own any. The kimono I thought added a laid back vibe along with sunglasses. These are my favourite pair of sunnies I own, I live in them. A festival in England means that rain is inevitable at some point, the weather is just too unpredictable. That's where my main love of this outfit comes into play. I am obsessed with this yellow rain coat from Fat Face. Yellow is a colour I don't wear too often but I just love it, lightweight, waterproof, fun it just ticks all of the boxes.

Festival fashion is by far my favourite and I feel like Fat Face have come up with some great essential pieces. Check out the Take Me to the Weekend range here.
Or of course you can check all of their women's wear here.

Missguided Wishlist

Lace Up Black Shirt Dress- £30.00

Floral Lace Shoulder T-Shirt Dress White- £28.00

Strappy Bodycon Mini Dress Red Bandana- £20.00

Lace Up Front Faux Suede Shorts Black- £25.00

Pocket Detail Peach Skin Shorts Mauve- £22.00

 

Oh Missguided you always bring out pieces I love when funds are low. I'm loving the New In section and found some items I am dyeing to have in my wardrobe!! In particular the black lace up shirt dress and the black suede lace up shorts. They just scream cool and witchy vibes to me. I'm lacking on the dress front so found a couple that I really enjoyed. I love bandana prints so the red midi instantly caught my eye. I might not be able to wear it due to the strappy back but never the less I love it. And the white lace floaty dress is so cute and dainty perfect for the summer. Pink... it's not my favourite colour but these suede shorts I think are lovely and would add something different to my usual monochrome outfits.

 

If someone could lend me some money to make a cheeky order then that would be lovely, seriously I got to have that lace up dress haha.

Currently having the most manic weekend sewing like crazy. I'm tired, feel ill and have blisters on my hands. Its never ending. Only 4 weeks left of university, I wish time would just stop going so damn quickly.

House of Fraser sponsors the BAFTAs

 

Shirt- Ted Baker from House of Fraser*

Blazer- Baronjon (Milan Collection)

Jeans- Topman

Brogues- TK Maxx

 

 The British Academy Television Awards or as most people know it the BAFTAs takes place this month and the title sponsor for them is House of Fraser. They will be dressing the nominees and putting on events informing everyone on all of the latest information on the run up to the big event.

When it comes to ultra glam red carpet events it always seems to be the women that seem to get all of the attention for what they are wearing. With stunning gowns and lots of bling everyone wants to know which designer is splashed all over them. However what about the men, looking dapper in there pristine suits it's time to focus on what the men wear.

Looking at men's choices from previous red carpet events I seem to be drawn to two factors colour and texture. I like the outfits that aren't just the simple monochrome tuxedos. Don't get me wrong many men can pull them off so well but why not be a little different, add some sparkle or a splash of colour. I'm not talking bright neon's but the darker richer shades of reds and purples seem to be my personal favourites.

House of Fraser are a big name when it comes to department stores in the UK and have a huge range of formal wear that will be showcased on all of the nominees on the big night. In particular they have an impressive range of shirts from various designers ranging in price, colour and pattern. Seriously whether your looking for the most prestigious of occasions or for a casual night out there is something to fit your needs. So lads your truly spoilt for choice. Check out the range here.

To celebrate being the official sponsors of the BAFTAs House of Fraser challenged me to create a look of my own that I would consider fit for the red carpet/smart event and see how easy it is to style up one of the shirts available from their range. I managed to convince my good friend Tom into modelling the outfit I put together, although I say convincing it didn't take much for him to say yes.

 

I went for the theme 'smart casual' as I thought it would be more of a challenge. For the shirt I picked a beautiful slim fit Ted Baker number. The fit of it is really nice and the small spot print doesn't make the shirt too in your face. And the quality oh my, it's so good. The dark shade of colour I believe makes it really easy to pair with any items. To add a bit more of a casual twist I decided to go with some skinny jeans from Topman and as they are black it doesn't really look obvious that they are jeans. However you have to smarten it up if your going out to a red carpet event right?? Brogues are my favourite type of shoe for both men and women so when I saw Tom had these classic black brogues they just had to be included as they instantly smarten up any outfit. And for added tailoring I chose to pair the outfit with this grey blazer which adds even more of a smart vibe. It's made many appearances at house parties back in the days of sixth form so it has a sense of nostalgia.  



I'm now really excited to see what House of Fraser has to offer for the BAFTA nominees and will no doubt be taking notice of what the men are wearing just as much as the women

 

If you'd like to catch up with the latest news on the BAFTAs then check out the House of Fraser website here.

 

Images of previous red carpet looks sourced from here and here