M&Co. multiway maxi dress

July 17, 2015August 5, 2015 | blueskygirlie

A little while ago I entered the M&Co. summer blogging competition on holiday style (read it here) and came runner up. As a prize I was asked to pick one of items I blogged for a gift and I chose the Petite multiway maxi dress.
I thought it was a very wearable dress for summer – today I style it up for wearing on holiday and give my review on it. So the details – this dress is part of the M&Co. Petite range and is currently in the summer sale reduced to £16 from £29. It is available in sizes 8-18. Its made from a lightweight, silky material with smocked elasticated waist and slightly blouson top which has a tightly elasticated top seam.

The dress has multiway straps (a bit like a bra) which means you can wear it with straps, strapless, as a halterneck or crossed over. The straps themselves were a little fiddly at first and hard to get into place but once set worked well (although I found the end hooks came out of the dress a couple of times which was a little annoying). However a bit like a multiway bra, practise made perfect and I soon got them how I wanted them!
I ended up with a size 12 after the 10 was too small across the bust and had to be returned. My advice is to go a size bigger than your normal size in M&Co. (which is usually quite generous) if you’re buying from the Petite range and are quite curvy. At 5’2″, the length was just skimming the floor with flat sandals on, which is how I like a maxi dress – this range is for 5’3″ or below and I’d say just right length wise.

I teamed it with my cropped white denim jacket bought from M&Co. last season and Accessorize camera novelty bag. A perfect look for a bit of holiday sightseeing maybe?
Pinned back wavy hair, red lipstick and my favourite lucky sixpence coin necklace (£1.50 from Primark!) completed the look. All in all, I found this a versatile dress and liked it particularly as the strapless version – after all who wants strap marks as part of your holiday tan!!!

Are you going away soon? Do you plan your outfits beforehand? Let me know what your summer holiday styling looks like.

Maxi dress – M&Co. Petite*
Denim jacket – M&Co.
Necklace – Primark
Bag – Accessorize
Sandals – New Look

Wearing Teen Ranges

July 14, 2015August 5, 2015 | blueskygirlie

If you follow my Instagram you’ll probably of noticed I wear quite a lot of kids clothes. This has started in the last few years or so.

Being 5’2″ in height, teen ranges often fit my height much better than any main range, and petite ranges are not as common as you would think. After losing weight a few years ago I realised that my size 10/12 frame seemed to fit a lot of the older sizes of some kidswear ranges and to be honest I kind of like some of the clothes better!

So can you get away with wearing a kidswear piece of fashion when you are 40 plus?
I think you can! You need to follow a few rules though and here are my 5…

1. Can I pull this off? Just as you’d look at a piece of main range fashion you need to ask yourself if the design is appropriate for you. Sadly for me now in my 40’s, certain super cute prints like Hello Kitty that I wore in my 20’s now look rather out of place, however each to their own and if you love it, then go for it! I’m still rather partial to a fun print t-shirt though and find more ‘classic’ designs like Disney, smiley faces, retro logos etc all work really well – if you feel great in it then do it!

2. Will it be too short? Its great to not have to alter stuff but then again wearing a dress that is super short is probably not the best idea. Consider wearing it as a top or with leggings underneath instead.

3. Will my boobs fit in it? The amount of items I’ve had to pass on because of my D cup bust! If you are busty you may have to look for items that are more stretchy instead.

4. Not all ranges are created equal. Make sure you try everything on. An age 13/14yrs might fit in one store but be tiny in another, the same goes with length. Most teen ranges go up to 15/16yrs so make sure you shop around.

5. Stick to certain types of clothes. Unless you are very petite, skinny jeans and other very fitted items are a no no. Look for items where the design makes them boxy or more voluminous. Also look out for shoes and boots which often go up to a size 5 or even 6.

And as a final plus, in the UK its all 20% cheaper due to being VAT free!

And here are a selection of some of the teen ranges I’ve worn.

Tammy Girl cropped t-shirt – a boxy shape means a easy fit regardless of it being size 152-158 (12/13yrs) and I love that this is actually cropped on me whereas most adult cropped tops sit on my hips in the most totally unflattering way.

Love Australia UGG boots – When I wanted a pair of Kensingtons I realised the kids size 5’s where over £100 less in price! And the only difference? They are a tiny bit shorter (as am I!) and have a zip, which I actually prefer.

Tammy Girl strapless maxi dress – I love maxi dresses but often they don’t love me – to buy a dress and not have to shorten it is a dream! A stretchy strapless dress like this in size 164-170cm (14/15 yrs) fits perfectly.

915 for New Look shoes – as a size 5 most kids ranges have shoes in my size. I hate high heels so its a great way to find dressy low heeled shoes and sandals. I might not like high heels but I do love a party shoe!

M&S indigo jumpsuit – A great length, although it was a little tight on the bust at first. Being cotton it had give in it so after a bit of wear (and slight stretching!) it was perfect. This one is age 13/14 years.

M&Co. Kylie necklace – obviously this is one size but kids jewellery ranges have some nice little pieces and my nickname is Panda!

915 at New Look jumper – age 14/15 years. This was an example of trying items on as some of the range came up very small.

Store Twenty One Christmas tops – Both in age 11-12 fitted me at a size 10-12! The green top is a boys one so dont forget to have a look in the boys ranges too!

So, are you ready to have a browse in the kids section the next time you go shopping?

All these photos are from my Instagram – Follow it here for fashion, style, my life and loves and all the things I find beautiful.

Confetti.co.uk ‘Style it Like a Pro’ day

July 10, 2015July 10, 2015 | blueskygirlie

As you probably know I’m recently engaged and as a stylist the look of my wedding is a big deal – to be honest the look of EVERYTHING is important to me!

As well as blogging here I also write inspiration blogs on wedding styling and have styled a couple of real life weddings, so new wedding ranges and trends are always of interest.

When I heard about www.confetti.co.uk‘s Style it like a Pro event I was really excited. The chance to meet some other like-minded bloggers, see the new ranges and also see some styling ideas in practice.

source

As a trained stylist I wasn’t expecting to learn anything new but it was a great refresher and definitely made me get excited about weddings! Seeing all the products, being able to touch and feel them plus see the gorgeous looks set up in real life was great.

So what were the Confetti.co.uk in-house stylist’s top tips for styling a wedding display?

Firstly always consider three main things when styling – height, detail and texture
Once you have those in your display then think about colour and theme. Three of their main trends were shown to us – Industrial, Vintage & Woodland. The boho side of me defintely liked the rustic, fairytale look of Woodland the best but they were all lovely.
Look to use a small amount of alternative ideas, such as mixing themes or repurposing items e.g. cake toppers as ornaments or cupcake holders holding decorative accents or candles.
If you’re mixing things together then make sure you keep a constant. If you mix themes for example keep the colour palette the same.
Finally, make it personal – this is your wedding, pick things you love and make it beautiful in your own way.

I had great fun Instgram’ing all the pretty stuff I spied…

Even the refreshments were beautiful – imagine having these lovely things at your wedding reception…

Here are some of my favourite items from the day…

Industial look table centrepiece – I love the starkness of the galvanised metal and chalkboard area for information, plus the flowers add a pretty and fresh element.

Lace parasol – the intricate detail of this full sized parasol was so beautiful and perfect for shading the bride or her guests at a summer wedding. There’s also a mini version that can be used as a display piece that is super cute.

Embracing bear cake toppers – These ceramic bears are actually designed to sit on top of the wedding cake but used as decorative pieces within the Woodland theme looked just adorable.

We were told that around 75% of the products are developed in-house for some unique style you wont find anywhere else. Great for all of us who want to be unique…and lets be honest everyone wants that on their wedding day. I definitely was impressed with the range and will be persuing the website soon for a few key pieces for myself…Hey, I am engaged! Look out for them styled in further blogs.

***********************************************

Confetti.co.uk has teamed up with some of the leading UK wedding brands to provide one lucky couple with a stunning prize package in their Win Your Wedding competition. The winner will receive the key components needed to have the wedding of their dreams, without the hefty price tag up to the value of a huge £40000!

Enter the competition today for your chance to win – I have! Find it on the website here. The winning couple will receive…*takes a deep breath*

Reception Venue courtesy of Big Chief Tipi
Wedding Photography courtesy of Jenny Martin Photography
Discounted Wedding Photography courtesy of Portobello Picture Co
Bridal Makeup courtesy of Made Up Makeup and Beauty
Caviar courtesy of Kings Fine Food
Bridal Lingerie courtesy of StephieAnn Design
Wedding Album courtesy of Illustries
Wedding Transportation courtesy of Transformer Cars
Flower Girl Dress courtesy of Poppy England
Bridal Dressing courtesy of Bridal Dressing by Angela
Wedding Stationery, Veil, Wedding Favours, Ceremony Accessories, Table and Venue Decor, Personalised Decor and Venue Styling courtesy of Confetti.co.uk
Thank You Flowers for the Mother of the Bride and Mother of the Groom
Bridal Shoes courtesy of Crystal Bridal Accessories
Bridesmaid Jewellery courtesy of Tigerlily Jewellery
Wedding Caricature Entertainment courtesy of The Wedding Artist
Fabric flower bouquet courtesy of Daphne Rosa
Photo Scarves x3 courtesy of My Story Gifts
Groom and Usher Suits courtesy of Stephen Bishop Suiting
Wedding celebration recipe book courtesy of Recipe Gift Book
Speech Writing Services courtesy of Great Speech Writing
Bridal Headwear courtesy of Cata Vassalo
Reception Entertainment courtesy of Warble Entertainment
Boudoir Photography Session courtesy of Divine Divas
Videography courtesy of Shoot it Yourself
Male Shaving Hamper x4 courtesy of Dalit Goods Co.
Spa break and beauty package for two courtesy of Ardencote Manor
Doodle Duvet and Pens Bundle courtesy of Eat Sleep Doodle
Photobooth courtesy of Picture Blast
Bridal Gown courtesy of Eternity Bridal
Wedding Dress Storage courtesy of Empty Box Company
Cyprus Honeymoon courtesy of Kanika Hotels
Bridesmaid Dresses courtesy of Alexia Designs
Bridal Coaching Hen Party courtesy of The Bridal Coach
Stag Party courtesy of StagWeb
Hen Party courtesy of GoHen
Silk Flowers courtesy of Petals Polly
Live Band courtesy of earcandy
Wedding Bands courtesy of Beaverbrooks
Wedding Coordination courtesy of Black Pearl Weddings
First Anniversary Short Break courtesy of SuperBreak
Mobile Bar courtesy of Mambo Mobile Bars
Table Top Love Letter Lights courtesy of The White Bulb
A Bespoke Wedding Memory Book courtesy of Memeoirs
Wedding Macaron Favours courtesy of Anyonita Nibbles

Now thats an impressive prize!

Totally Tropical Taste

July 7, 2015August 5, 2015 | blueskygirlie

I’m partial to a jumpsuit. I blogged about styling a more formal one here recently and have quite a few in my wardrobe.

Today I’m wearing a rather bold one from Primark. This is the kind of piece you can only get away with on a sunny day. But hey, its summer and its fantastic to be able to wear bright colours and bold prints.

For sizing I’m wearing a 10 but like most Primark clothes they are available in size 6-20. The print is strong but the background of navy blue keeps it from looking too bright.

I’ve teamed it with a vintage green leather belt and wedge sandals for a bit of height. I find a jumpsuit or playsuit always looks better when worn with a heel, even a low one. (I hate high heels!)


As ever this jumpsuit was far too long on me so I have shortened it and added another press stud to the cross over front where it gaped on my shorter frame. Ah the joys of being 5’2″!!!

As an extra bit of co-ordination I’ve added these palm leaf earrings from Primark. They are available instore now reduced to just 50p and perfect for hot summer days!

All I need now is a Pina Colada and a hammock and I’ll be sorted! Are you embracing jumpsuits this summer?

Jumpsuit – Primark

Earrings – Primark

Belt – vintage

Sandals – New Look

Walls Ice Cream does fashion…

July 2, 2015August 5, 2015 | blueskygirlie

I love a great collaboration and when I heard ASOS were working with retro favourite Walls Ice Cream I knew whatever they would create was going to be lots of fun.

The result is a 16-piece collection inspired by our favourite retro ice lollies, including Twisters, Rocket lollies, Feasts and Mini Milks.

It launched the first week of June and features crop tops, sequinned mini-dresses, jumpsuits, phone cases, novelty clutch bags, shoes and nail art.

My faves :

Embellished shirt (currently sold out) – £85.00
Crop top – £22.00. Mini skirt – £25.00

Feast clutch bag – £20.00. Beaded rocket lolly bag – £35.00

Phone case – £12.00 Twister socks – £4.00. Shoes – £50.00 (currently sold out)
All photos via ASOS

If these are a bit above your budget how about these other Walls branded beauties?

Primark are selling these Lip Smackers lip balms for just £2.50 each.
source

Tesco Direct have napkin, plates and cups perfect for a summer party or BBQ starting at just £1.52 source

And while I await my fashion treats, I already have some fabulous Walls homeware items myself including fridge magnets and cushions as seen below… This summer is truly the summer of the ice cream! Are you as in love with the Walls Ice Cream ranges as I am?

Suns out…Sunnies on!

June 30, 2015August 5, 2015 | blueskygirlie

I do love a pair of sunglasses. I have quite a lot of them and use them as you would jewellery, changing the style to suit my fashion look. I like to have a some cheap and cheerful pairs which I add to when new trends occur and one or two more premium ones in classic styles that wont date.

When www.discountedsunglasses.co.uk recently asked if I would like to choose a pair from their range I immediately fell in love this this Michael Kors pair. Sporty and cool looking they are very different from the normal cats eyes styles I go for, but at the same time very classic looking. They were also discounted from £84.00 to just £49.99!

There have some lovely little details such as the Michael Kors name in silver simply on the side and an MK logo on the inside base of each arm. The quality shines through and you really notice it when wearing them in bright sunshine – the glare protection is amazing. And best of all I couldn’t believe I could get a pair of Michael Kors sunglasses for under £50!

I styled them with skinny jeans, a bright tee and my favourite Cath Kidston ‘Cloud’ trainers for a laid back casual look. What do you think?

I love this t-shirt. Look at the back detail…
T-shirt – La Redoute
Sunglasses – http://www.discountedsunglasses.co.uk*
Jacket – F&F
Jeans – Dorothy Perkins
Trainers – Gola at Cath Kidston

I’ve been wearing them quite a bit as its been lovely and sunny here in the UK. I think they work just as well with a more formal look too…

Jacket – M&Co.
Skirt – Monsoon
Sunglasses -www.discountedsunglasses.co.uk*
Sandals – Matalan

Do you love them as much I as do? So far I’ve hardly took them off! Check out the rest of the range and grab yourself a designer bargain here.

Saturday Styling

June 25, 2015August 5, 2015 | blueskygirlie

Last Saturday the boyf (now fiancé) and I had a lovely Saturday of us time together. No kids and free time meant we could do what we wanted! After a glorious lie-in, we decided to go to a really lovely local market town to potter round the vintage and farmers markets, admire the ancient architecture and then get a late lunch in a nice bistro. It was just lovely.

So enough with what we did…the big question is what did I wear???

Well I wore this little ensemble! The skirt is a Monsoon beauty which can just as easily be dressed up as it can be dressed down and by wearing it with a simple white tee the whole look is clean and simple and the skirt, with all its embellishment and subtle sparkle gets to shine. So easy to style, yet somehow looks like I tried a lot harder!

Jewellery was a white beaded wrap bracelet and on my feet, a sparkly pair of sandals. As the skirt is grey the metallic elements were all silver based. When we were out I also wore a white denim jacket.



The skirt itself is just a beautiful piece and is heavy with embellishment. The wide waistband and box pleats are flattering and the dove grey colour so elegant. Although its a recent edition to my wardrobe (a Monsoon donated head office sample bought via the Cancer Research charity shop…yay!) its become one of my favourite skirts. And yet again heres a reason to have a good quality white slim fitting t-shirt on your wardrobe as they make any outfit look crisp and clean.

Theres nothing like a great statement piece to make you feel great. I felt fantastic in this outfit – thats thing about fashion, it is so much more than just clothing.
So, have you got plans for the weekend? Is your outfit ready? Whatever youre doing, enjoy…and don’t forget to be stylish!

T-shirt – South at Very.co.uk

Skirt – Monsoon

Bracelet – Matalan

Sandals – Matalan

Lady in Red

June 23, 2015August 5, 2015 | blueskygirlie

Todays outfit is a dressed up look for an evening wedding reception we were invited to recently. I chose to vamp it up and go all lady in red…

I decided to be brave and wear a chiffon bias cut floor length dress with a low front. Bias cut is a hard one to wear and I’ll be honest, I felt quite pear shaped in it. However, I got lots of compliements during the night so I soon felt OK. Thats the thing with losing weight, you still can feel like the old version of yourself. I added black sandals and a large clutch bag and kept it simple with just some statement earrings for jewellery.
Make up was all about the black winged eyeliner and red lips. Accessories were all black apart from diamanté starburst earrings.

Dress – BHS

Earrings – H&M

Bag – Peacocks

Shoes – Vintage

Inspiration – that dancing lady emoji…Olé!!! 💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻

Ready to wear Suede?

June 19, 2015August 5, 2015 | blueskygirlie

Suede is everywhere this season. Skirts, waistcoats and tops are appearing in many High Street stores influenced from the catwalk collections.

Now, suede is not an easy choice. It can be quite rigid and marks easily. Most items are dry clean only so its important to get yourself a suede brush and some suede and nubuck spray cleaner if you want to avoid being in the dry cleaners each week!

But if you decide to go for it, suede, like leather, can create a luxe look with very little styling. Yes, its an investment piece, but one that will never go out of fashion…

I co-ordinated an Outnet bargain top (I didnt want to make too much of an investment!) with skinny jeans and a statement necklace. The boxy shape of the t-shirt balances the fitted jeans and the necklace adds a bit of interest! Buckled boots finish the look.