Tag Archives: AllSaints

‘Tis brass out there.

I LOVE winter.  At 7.30am this morning, even though I knew I wanted to go straight back to bed after getting the kids to school, I dressed in my warmest running gear and ran like a banshee in the freezing cold and glorious sunshine – it was exhilarating.  The whole of the US (bar Florida of course) is shivering in Arctic conditions.  I love it – I get to wear hats, big coats and boots.

GG3 GG2 GG 1

 

Sneakers – Golden Goose (old – similar here) // Hat – Nordstrom // Jacket – J.Crew (old – similar here) // Jeans – Diesel Fayza // Sweater – Boden Off Duty Jumper

 

AS1 AS3

 

Boots – Rag & Bone Newbury Charcoal suede // Trousers – Zara pleather leggings // Tank – H&M (old) // Sweater – AllSaints (old – similar here) // Coat – Zara // Bag – Anya Hindmarch from TheOutnet.com

Shop this post

Enhanced by Zemanta

It’s starting to feel a lot like Christmas!

After a wild, fun night on Thursday, that ended later than expected at 3am, I headed out of the house on Friday to get the tree, again later than expected…The kids were eager to decorate and for the first time ever I let them at it – all except the stringing of the lights that my OCD just couldn’t bear to let go of, not just yet anyway…I have to say they did a mighty fine job.  Even our daredevil elf, Maximus, was suitably impressed.

IMG_4964 IMG_4968 IMG_4970

 

While we were waiting for the tree to be delivered I asked the children to write their lists for Santa.  As you can see Poppy was less than impressed for some reason, though Hugh had a blast writing his – I must teach him to do ditto marks next time poor lad!

Lists for Santa

Hat – Nordstrom // T-shirt – Zara (old) // Cardigan – AllSaints // Jeans – Zara coated jeans (similar here) // Boots – Frye Jane Tall boots

The house feels and smells so festive now – I love having the trees up – but it’s hard to believe it really is almost Xmas!!  I haven’t sent cards yet or transferred the kids’ lists into my Amazon cart – thank goodness I had the foresight to photograph them before they were handed over to Santa!

Today I had a good run with Tennyson in the drizzle – the boy is a trouper – 4 miles in the wet and cold was not was not what he was expecting as he bounded out of the door!  I then enjoyed a good old family day watching football and Christmas movies while indulging with peppermint bark and hot chocolate…I think a run will be required most days in this run up to the 25th!

Zara sweater

 Sneakers – Golden Goose // Jeans – Diesel Fayza Jogg Jeans // Tank – Gap // Sweater – Zara

 

Enhanced by Zemanta

Kids, who’d have ’em?

In previous years, when the children have been in daycare in the days running up to Thanksgiving, the Husband and I have taken advantage of the the child free time and headed out for some indulgent lunches.  Now both of them are out of school for the whole Thanksgiving week so we go out for a few family meals instead – just as much fun – but a different type of fun;)  Yesterday my Husband surprised me by planning a lovely posh lunch for him and I on the kids’ last day at school.  I was SO excited!  We were just about to head out of the door when the phone rang – I could see it was school.  Dilemma – run for it and pretend you didn’t see or hear it – or pick it up in case it was a life or death emergency.  As any parent would (though I did pause for a second) we picked up and Hugh was sick:(  Dang!  Lunch out postponed to collect a poor wee boy from school with an apparent ear infection.  Of course once at home he proceeded to run wildly around the house with no apparent illness, ache or pain, though he is on antibiotics now:(

So today marks the first day of our Thanksgiving Holiday and we’re off to choose bikes for them both.  Santa has sent Mum and Dad a letter telling us that we have to help Poppy and Hugh choose, as he is worried about space in his sleigh this year…:)  I can’t wait to see the looks on their faces when we tell them where we are going!

In the meantime here is what Mom has been wearing this week.  Starting with yesterday – I was trying to channel Emmanuelle Alt by wearing a collar, and I originally had on a black tuxedo jacket for the lunch-that-didn’t-happen instead of this fabulous cardigan.  I will just harp on for a moment about these Mango jeans – I’ve had lots of compliments which surprised me as they are not for everyone, and they are super comfortable – lots of stretch in the denim and pleather.  In fact these blue denim ones fit a tad looser than the black denim ones I have.  These are a US 6 and I would say fit true to size.

Mango chaps

 

Boots – Isabel Marant Dickers // Jeans – Mango combi jeans // Shirt – J.Crew chambray popover (similar here on sale) // Cardigan – AllSaints

Thursday was spent snuggled in cashmere.

leopard hat

 

Hat – J.Crew // Scarf – Uniqlo cashmere // Sweater – Uniqlo men’s cashmere crewneck // Jeans – Gap Always skinny // Boots – AllSaints Bonny Cuban

And here was a major fail on Wednesday – not really sure what look I was trying to create – but I really did end up looking like a baby in a babygrow – I think the pink fluffy cardigan took it a step too far:)  Individually I love all the items but together they certainly did not create the fashion forward look I had envisioned in my head.  Ah well – we can laugh and try again:)

Jumpsuit

 

Jumpsuit – Zara (old – similar here) // Cardigan – Zara (similar here) // Boots – grey nubuck Newbury boots

It’s a grey, damp day here today so it maybe a day for the cashmere onesie again🙂

Enhanced by Zemanta

You just never know who’s reading!

First published on my Husband’s birthday a year ago – Happy Birthday Honey – I barely recognize myself – or my closet!

After another summer of sizzling in the sun (with SPF of course), this morning I headed to my dermatologist for my annual check up.  There I am sitting ‘nekid’ with a sheet around me when in comes my lovely doctor who immediately asks me ‘do you have a blog? I’m sure it’s you on this style blog I’ve been reading!’.  Aaargh – now if I was dressed I’d have no problem saying ‘yes of course it is!’, but at that moment all I could focus on was the huge amount of fluff my socks had left on my sweaty toes – I was not by any means feeling like the writer of a so called ‘style’ blog.  I giggled nervously and tried to be witty by saying ‘of course it’s me – you must have been googling for ultra stylish women over 40’ – ‘don’t be silly’ she replied – well that’s me told.  So hello all in the dermatologist office – thank you for reading and don’t take too much notice of these ‘hangovers’ I refer to occasionally:)

It’s flippin’ cold and windy here though I am not complaining after seeing the state of the North East this morning.  I feel dreadful for all those suffering with flooding and no power.  On a more superficial note I’ve also been thinking about all those runners who are in limbo after months of training – I’m suspecting that the NYC marathon will not take place this weekend as not only can people not get there, but the streets of NYC are apparently filled with cars that ‘floated’ away from their parking spots!

In order to face the cold today, and make stripping off at the doctors easier, I am wearing my Boden leggings and layering with a bordeaux Zara t-shirt and my AllSaints Wasson pullover dress.  All finished off with Frye Veronica Slouch boots, an H&M scarf and Zara quilted leather jacket.  The dress is lovely and lightweight – it wraps over at the back creating a V shaped hemline – it’s really unusual.

Here you can see the detail of the wrap of the dress at the back…:

Now to prepare for this evening’s fun for MM’s birthday!  We’re off out for dinner and I can’t wait:)

Related articles

Enhanced by Zemanta

The hairdryer is bloody brilliant!

Yes I used it for the first time yesterday and my goodness talk about hairdryer innovation – I don’t often I promise – but the ghd dried my hair to silky, smooth perfection – with volume – in a matter of minutes.  I used my round brush and honestly I didn’t even feel the need for flat irons.  Which is a good job as they are only working intermittently, much like our oven which, is far more distressing with Thanksgiving around the corner!

Yesterday was a fairly lazy day, after spin class that is!  I headed to Whole Foods to collect my ingredients for Moussaka.  I’ve been talking about making it for literally months and now the air is cooler here it’ll be the perfect post swim meet meal – if it all goes to plan that is – fingers crossed the oven works for me:)

So for running around doing errands – here’s what I wore.

allsaints and GG

 

Trousers – Zara (old) // Sneakers – Golden Goose // Tank – H&M // Sweater – AllSaints serpent jumper (old)

Thanks to all of you that bought off my blog sale – they are now in the mail.

Also stay tuned for some exciting Boden news!

***

Note – this is not a sponsored post – I paid for the ghd hairdryer and these are my opinions.

 Shop this look

Enhanced by Zemanta

New necessities.

No don’t worry I’m not trying to justify the ‘need’ for new shoes or clothes again – in fact surely our relationship has evolved to a stage where justifications are no longer required?  Indeed.

Today I bought something that I haven’t bought in years, and something that I’ve rarely needed in recent times.  A new hairdryer.

As my hair has grown I feel the need to blow dry it more often – to acquire that more groomed look.  My haircare routine currently involves washing with Trader Joe’s citrus shampoo, occasionally followed by the conditioner, then the addition of some brand of keratin smoother (I haven’t found one yet to be loyal to), followed by a quick dry with a 10 year old Revlon travel hairdryer, and a quick run over with my 13 year old CHI flat irons to smooth out the kinks and remaining frizz.  Both the hairdryer and the flat irons have just bitten the dust within 10 days of each other.

With my new longer locks – and the ambition to continue to grow them into a healthy, shiny, smooth mane, I decided to upgrade as well as replace.  Any excuse to spend more money hey?  Hence I began the search for new ‘professional’ grade appliances.  I had no idea where to begin – things in the hair care world have moved on somewhat.

For flat irons I knew I wanted to look at CHI again.  The ones that just died on me were amazing and I bought them for $150 (which back then was extortionate) but for the use they have had, cost per use etc., they have been phenomenal value.  However, I also surveyed my blogging buddies – it’s great to have a panel of fashion and beauty experts on hand!  The majority of them recommended ghd – a brand designed in the UK and made in Europe.  Looking through the information on their site it appears there are two popular models – the Classic and the Professional, and I nearly ordered the Professional model.  Then I noticed the Eclipse model which promises to style the hardest to tame and frizziest hair, tackling any hair texture – promises that appealed to me knowing how unruly my hair can be at longer lengths.  The Eclipse is currently available in the UK, but unfortunately not yet in the US – though their Facebook page keeps suggesting the release here is imminent – probably in time for Christmas.  So, for once, I have decided to wait till the Eclipse model gets here – no bad thing as it looks likely it will retail for nearly $300.

So I moved on to hairdryers.  Again I surveyed my blogger friends and many brands were mentioned that I had never heard of before, like Parlux.  Other brands that I found more prevalent in the US were the T3, and again ghd.  I was at first completely sold on the Parlux 3800.  Okay I admit I loved the green and I loved the idea it was made in Italy – go figure.  Mr. PS pointed out that Italians may make great shoes and clothes but since when were they known for electronics?  On further investigation it appeared their customer service and support in the US may be nonexistent.  Not what you need when you are contemplating buying a $200 hairdryer – just in case it dies on first use.  So today I headed into Sephora to continue my research.  I looked at both the T3 and the ghd.  According to the lovely lady helping me they sell more T3s but the ghd is much newer to market here.  I felt that the ghd was very slightly heavier, but it was also smaller (shorter in length) and a little cheaper.  The UK connection convinced me that was the brand I wanted, and as shallow as it sounds I want my flat iron and hairdryer brands to match:)  So now I am the happy owner of a new hairdryer – who knew hair appliances could make a girl smile so much?!  Oh and if you are in the UK you can get hold of the ghd dryer at Selfridges – one of the few things that is far cheaper there than here – if only our sockets were compatible!

GHD

 

While I was in the Mall I popped into Gap who have a sale on in stores here now – plus 35% off regular items and an extra 25% off sale items online (with code GAPFALL)!  I did a little try on.

I picked up the window pane sweater just to try it.  And just as I thought the lines do NOT work on my curvy boobs – square windows become bay windows.

IMG_4749

I loved this leopard print lightweight sweatshirt.  I’m overwhelmed with leopard print in my closet now though!

IMG_4753

I loved this bomber jacket but couldn’t bring myself to pay full price for it in store so I ordered it online with the 35% discount.  It’s lovely.  Grey and cream are perfect together.

IMG_4754

Finally I’ll leave you with my outfit today.  In honor of the AllSaints 100 hour sale I wore my favorite AllSaints jumper from years ago, H&M boyfriend jeans, and some sneakers I found lying around;)

Golden Goose

*****

Note: On returning home I discovered the ghd is made in Italy too – so maybe I better have more faith in their electronics:)

Enhanced by Zemanta

AllSaints 100 hour SALE!!

Couldn’t let you miss this one – AllSaints have just launched their 100 hour sale!

 

My fabulous sweatshirt that I wore the other day is in it!!

AllSaints

My Bonny Cuban boots are less than half price too!!

Bonny Cuban

Off to fill my cart:)

Enhanced by Zemanta

Leather pants.

I love a bit of leather and I am in ‘need’ of some great leather trousers.  I had some AllSaints leather jeans, but I wore them to death, and with my yo-yoing weight they stretched beyond what could be considered a flattering fit.  I have been hunting for some time and I am still none the wiser as to which I should buy.

I have two conundrums when looking for leather trousers:

1. Leather vs. pleather.  I am all for trying a good pleather trouser, but it was suggested to me the other day that it might cause some unpleasant sweating where you least want to sweat – I’ve since thought twice about pleather.  Also if I am looking for great leather trousers, then shouldn’t I invest in a brand known for their real leather trousers – now not necessarily Balmain (unless my Husband is buying of course), but maybe Theory or Helmut Lang?

2. A trouser with fly vs. legging.  Part of me wants a great leather jean with a fly and 5 pockets so I can wear shorter tops and sweaters without the fear of a camel toe on show.  On the other hand wriggling into a pair of leather leggings maybe easier, and they are often far cheaper than a leather trouser.

Camel toe and sweating – makes me wonder if I should just avoid the leather pant thing altogether?

So here’s a run down of what has appealed to me so far…

These Ted Baker leggings are not cheap at $600 but knowing the brand they will be fabulous quality.  They also have a side zip and the added stretch will help keep them in shape beautifully.

Ted Baker

I love these Warehouse leather trousers for something a little different.  They aren’t really loose like Christine Centenera wore, but they have a bit more shape than a regular skinny trouser – and I love the cross over fly.  I am sorely tempted by these.

Warehouse

And just so we can dream about what it looks like to ooze style – here she is herself…

Christine-Centenera

Sticking with the peg leg theme – these are a great alternative to leather from ASOS.  You have to use your imagination a little but I think they are great styled correctly.

Peg Pant

These Vero Moda trousers are a great price and a classic cut with a side zip.  Can’t really argue with the price here at all for real leather at $213.

Vero Moda

These Helmut Lang leggings are in my basket on TheOutnet.com.  I am almost at the point of placing my order.  A great price at £292 – they normally retail for £800.  Why am I hesitating?  I’ve no idea!

Helmut Lang

Now these are a definite love it or loathe it item.  They are a copy of the R13 Chaps.  I am obsessively waiting for them to appear on the US Mango site.  Mango have assured me via Twitter that they will be there soon – if you are in the UK you lucky beggars can order yours now!  Take a look here at how amazing Eve looks in hers.

Mnago Sade

Finally just for fun here’s what I ordered today.  At $27 I thought they were worth the risk…we’ll see when they arrive…I present my faux leather harem trousers from eBay.

Faux leather harems

I’ll leave you with today’s outfit taken by my lovely man as we were rushing out of the door for a cheeky child free lunch:)

IMG_7627

Boots – Dorothy Perkins // Jeans – Express (old – similar here) // Tank – TopShop Camisole // Cardigan – Marks and Spencer (old – similar here) // Bag – YSL Roady

Enhanced by Zemanta

Wedge booties.

I’ve been in love with Isabel Marant boots for some time.  The iconic Dicker boot has become a staple and I love it’s casual coolness.  I also love her dressier boots and I have my eye on the fringe bootie from her collection with H&M that will launch in November.  I just hope I can get online before the inevitable hm.com meltdown on the 14th.

Another boot I have fallen for is the Scarlet wedge boot but at $1500 they will never be justified.  However, my new high street love, Mango, has come to my rescue with their ‘tribute’ to the Scarlet.  At $189 they are too good to say no to I think.

wedge boots

 

We’ve had a fun packed weekend as the kids have been home for Fall break and Simon visited us from Stockholm.  My Fall break started on Thursday night with a great night out with some other Moms from school.  Lots of laughter and chat.

AllSaints

 

Jeans – Diesel Fayza Jogg Jeans // Boots – Grey nubuck Rag & Bone Newbury boots // Sweatshirt – AllSaints

Simon arrived on Saturday night and I grilled steaks…wearing a ‘statement necklace’ – see I’m trying my accessories!

Saturday night

 

Jeans – Diesel Fayza Jogg Jeans // Shoes – Vince Camuto (old) // Top – Zara (eons old) // Necklace – Macy’s (old)

Last night we headed out to a steak house – yes I got my protein in this weekend!  Plenty of great Italian red and a fabulous filet brought the weekend to a great end.

I cannot say how much I love this Zara dress – the fabric is just brilliant – slinky, stretchy, supportive, easy care – and I love the color.  Just a great, great dress and I plan to wear it with leggings in the winter.

Zara dress and peep toes

 

Dress – Zara // Jacket – Zara tuxedo jacket (old) // Shoes – Marks and Spencer (old) // Clutch – YSL Belle de Jour

So now it’s time to enjoy the amazing weather we have and head to the park for Columbus Day before our routine returns tomorrow!

 

Enhanced by Zemanta

Outfit catch up.

First of all my Golden Goose arrived!! Yay!!! SO fast!! But boo!! Bugger they are too big!! I ordered 39s – both my other pairs are 39s – but these leopard print ones are ENORMOUS! So off they go back, with the 38s on their way to me. Why must a brand be so inconsistent with sizing?  The good thing is they are lovely – quite muted and not too loud at all – if you can say that for leopard print:)

It’s definitely Fall here now – the jeans and boots are out in full force, along with scarves – it’s very exciting!  This weekend we have Fall break from school too so it should be fun packed with play dates for Poppy and Hugh, and Mom and Dad:)

Today I am wearing – shock, gasp, horror – lots of ‘old’ stuff.  My Boden drop shoulder jumper (from the clearance), Gap camo jeans, Zara scarf and grey Newbury boots.  Look at that turf behind me!  We have a whole new yard to enjoy – no more rotting swing set causing a hazard to anyone!

IMG_7621

Monday saw me in my new H&M ‘coatigan’, Fayza jeans, Vince Ninas and an old Zara black tee.  The sunglasses are Chanel from last year (similar here).

IMG_7592

Tuesday I wore my fabulous leopard print hat, old AllSaints tee, old J.Crew jacket (similar here), camo jeans from Gap and my canvas Newbury boots.  Yes, yes, yes – quite a few ‘older’ loved items coming back out for Fall!

IMG_7605

Yesterday I eventually changed into my Boden St. Ives jumper, Fayza jeans, Havaianas and J.Crew wool cap – I was very lazy and worked from home while some burley men worked in the yard laying the turf:)  Sorry for the fuzzy photo – I think I was still shaking after a tabata session in spin class – I thought I might actually hurl it was such hard work!

IMG_4728

Unfortunately we underestimated the amount of turf we needed so they’ll be back next week to finish the job…

new lawn

My weekend starts tonight with a girls’ night out – margaritas and tacos – I can’t wait!

Enhanced by Zemanta