tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48193228522497694112024-02-19T07:10:48.060+00:00Ash Rural Mum StyleASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.comBlogger117125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-71317107215887176442015-05-15T14:23:00.002+01:002015-05-15T14:23:32.519+01:00How the other half live!
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">I dipped my toe into the
‘luxe’ beauty arena yesterday. Wandering past Space NK in search of Malin &
Goetz spot cream to calm my troubled chin, I was invited to a special event
they had on -<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>whereby if you spent a
certain amount (not hard to spend big in there) you got a selection box full of
trial size products including the cutest mini candle, several masks and a
mascara. I was in.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Aside from the Malin and
Goetz sulphur paste which, 2 days in, seems to be working incidentally…I also
had a splurge and bought the following:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><a href="http://uk.spacenk.com/tea-to-tan-face-and-body/MUK200015077.html?start=1&q=tea%20to%20tan" target="_blank">By TerryTea to Tan</a> – water / tea based spray on tan – washes off with soap and water –
suitable for face and body<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><a href="http://uk.spacenk.com/terrybly-densiliss-blush/MUK200013826.html?start=39&dwvar_MUK200013826_color=UK200013826&cgid=By%20Terry" target="_blank">By TerryDensiliss Blush</a> (colour 'platonic blonde' 01)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><a href="http://uk.spacenk.com/eyebrow-mascara/MUK200011045.html?start=25&cgid=By%20Terry&dwvar_MUK200011045_color=UK200011045" target="_blank">By TerryEyebrow mascara</a> (colour 'medium ash' 02)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><a href="http://uk.spacenk.com/tint-to-lip-%26-cheek/MUK200015078.html?start=3&cgid=By%20Terry" target="_blank">By Terrylip / cheek</a> stain due in coral and red<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><a href="http://uk.spacenk.com/philosykos-eau-de-toilette/MUS300023197.html?start=1&q=diptyque%20philosykos" target="_blank">DiptyquePhilosykos EDT</a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">(err… on reflection, looking
at that list, I wonder whether the person helping me might have been on ‘By
Terry’ commission…?!)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Cg6rMlUpmR06f1J93W21XHuhMUjBujxz9rKHudtZWfcVGVinvtXyD3n44ZL8tqQubcvMjU-PfoB7prmMCOsiy-EM7OqhyphenhyphenCWKMXNAalUHywrsQQITevpKHkn2Ge6ftFdbkOh1wp9hUbs/s1600/snkhaul.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Cg6rMlUpmR06f1J93W21XHuhMUjBujxz9rKHudtZWfcVGVinvtXyD3n44ZL8tqQubcvMjU-PfoB7prmMCOsiy-EM7OqhyphenhyphenCWKMXNAalUHywrsQQITevpKHkn2Ge6ftFdbkOh1wp9hUbs/s640/snkhaul.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">So since Weds I have been
sampling all these lovely products and my goodness they are Lovely with a
capital L.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">The most fantastic product is
the blusher. <s>I am embarrassed to mention the price but reader it was over
£50</s>. Am I insane? Have I lost my marbles totally?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, I wouldn’t rule it out. But setting
aside the fact this product needs its own mortgage, seriously it’s the most
amazing blusher I have ever tried and mark my words I have tried a lot. Even my
friends call me ‘Caspar the friendly ghost’. No-one does pallor like me. So I
can (kind of) justify blush as an essential in the interests of not scaring the
children. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">The thing which sets this
blush apart (so the sales patter went) was that it fills in and disguises fine
lines rather than settling in them. And this had been my problem, being of a
certain age with crows’ feet and laughter lines, I found the very areas I
needed to brighten up becoming like little sand dunes, accentuating both
dryness and crinkliness (not a good look).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-aXd9nUdXGYppYDQ-G1f0g1BscBk0ZKqq8f1YS58SOCgl_t1tz5ocyo5VO7sCERbgeUC6gzFSaEN639Gl1bWHL7AkHBov28R8L6dltSRLcjmv9pv8cG_a9GlsYrFoiAKpbcumbJoX3QU/s1600/blsh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-aXd9nUdXGYppYDQ-G1f0g1BscBk0ZKqq8f1YS58SOCgl_t1tz5ocyo5VO7sCERbgeUC6gzFSaEN639Gl1bWHL7AkHBov28R8L6dltSRLcjmv9pv8cG_a9GlsYrFoiAKpbcumbJoX3QU/s400/blsh.jpg" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Why oh why is it upside down?)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">It was something I was
resigned to in order to avoid the deathly pale look. But no more – this blush
really gives the most amazing natural youthful flush.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Used over the Tea to Tan sprayed and blended
onto my face it gives a natural healthy bronze glow (not orange at all). And I
had several compliments </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Arial; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">It got me thinking. Oh - to
be able to buy <em>everything</em> from this product line…!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">How fantastic to have this
sort of quality as the norm. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">I’m hoping the products will last a while but it’s
going to be a (financially) painful process to re-purchase them…as I suspect I
will become addicted. It also means there may be a dearth of clothes purchasing
going on, as the need to balance the budget kicks in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">(And on that vein, Primark post pending...!) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-89813051354175822112015-04-18T09:30:00.000+01:002015-04-18T09:30:00.934+01:00How to live a clutter free life. Is Marie Kondo the answer?<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As with so much else
in life, listen to your heart, your gut – whatever you want to call it. It
rarely lies.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Marie Kondo is the author of a book called <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-effective-clutter/dp/0091955106/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1429284373&sr=1-1&keywords=marie+kondo" target="_blank">‘The Life Changing Magic of Tidying up’</a>. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgplHY9AJxApQAbn6PPucBDayL1PCNH0uhiaVMDf5sxBGRb9Rk8QrDDTfLtMBJFjK4TAPj91-TzV1Kt5ejWmNlJLeU8akOzITuSZaWkx59eCXjamdw8lnDx3z98PKnukP3yF-J_8MrwE4g/s1600/kondo-book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgplHY9AJxApQAbn6PPucBDayL1PCNH0uhiaVMDf5sxBGRb9Rk8QrDDTfLtMBJFjK4TAPj91-TzV1Kt5ejWmNlJLeU8akOzITuSZaWkx59eCXjamdw8lnDx3z98PKnukP3yF-J_8MrwE4g/s1600/kondo-book.jpg" height="400" width="282" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Her approach to de-cluttering is based on focusing
on what you love and what you want to <b>keep</b>, rather than necessarily what you want to get rid of. Or to put it
simply, keeping only those things which ‘spark joy’. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How to find what sparks joy?
You will know, but to follow the Marie Kondo approach, you have to take
out everything and pile it up, then take hold of it and see how it makes you
feel. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After a few nondescript items sparking not much of anything
quite frankly, I suddenly spotted and literally ‘leapt on’ my green bargain
Toast cotton coat – a purchase made all the sweeter because it was from Oxfam
so was (a) a bargain and (b) supporting a good cause. I will at this point own
that I am slightly mad – but reader, I seized this coat, clasped it and jumped
up and down and did a little happy dance. Luckily I was in the privacy of my own home.
However, in terms of clothing - this is what joy feels like. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Similar items followed – a beautiful and classic tan
mulberry tote bag I’d lusted after for ages and then found at 70% off in an
outlet store. More loveable and wearable basics followed – a black Whistles
tube skirt (works with anything in any season and just so easy & versatile);
an LK Bennett classic tan raincoat; a ouple
of Longchamp le pliage bags; scarves in
colours I just <i>loved</i>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Things that I looked at which made me happy. Things that
reflected how I feel and who I am right now. Marie says that if you keep something that
does not spark joy then you are either holding onto the past or have a fear of
the future. How true this was – for me at least. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Those things that looked so good 5 years ago….whoaa… stop
right there – <b>5 years ago </b>(not now).
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Those things that cost a lot and I’m afraid to get rid of
because I might want them again (even though I don’t love them) and worry about
the waste of money…? </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yup - they have fear of the future written all over them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now I am quite a frugal person and did temper some of the
decisions with a little practicality. For example, I can’t claim really to love
any of my current umbrellas but clearly need at least one. However, what the
exercise has done is to highlight that there is a gap in my wardrobe for an
umbrella I do love and - when I see one that fits the bill I will get it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To free yourself of those things which no longer spark joy, Marie advises saying 'thank you for your service' before then placing them into the bin bag or donate bag. This may sound crazy but for me (disclaimer I AM crazy) it really worked and made the parting / closure better / easier. There was a sense that 'yes you have served me well and I loved you when I got you but it's time to say goodbye...' If like me you struggle with the emotional part of letting things go then I really recommend trying this approach. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kondo-ing (a verb Marie’s devotees have coined) also makes
you think about what you have in terms of how much you have and how much (or
little) you truly need. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think that even if I reduced my possessions by 50% I would
have all I needed and more – both for now and some way into the future. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The feeling of letting things go brings an amazing lightness
and freedom. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Marie Kondo’s approach has really struck a chord with me,
and I think I was close to reaching something akin to it after a long puzzling
and largely fruitless de-cluttering journey of my own.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But without Marie Kondo, and her legions of fans, I wouldn’t
have had the courage to go for it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In true Marie Kondo style I have not acquired the book
(another needless possession) but have gleaned the essence of the approach from
googling and from YouTube videos. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Kondo-ing. Try it and let me know how you get on!</span></div>
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ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-21806797179399952622015-04-17T15:58:00.002+01:002015-04-17T15:58:41.309+01:00Whistles sale shopping<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hi everyone, I've been AWOL a long time for which I apologise.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I found some lovely things the other day in Whistles, all of which were in the sale.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here they are:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJAlmqer11pbSQxD5-foH5My53oSWRMx8gUnYjFKBF8Vc2NHyY3zCVsihbQkFroHZA24FSc28xC9YhcqijHfH6mqbBYs_ncWTT9rCj2QvnEJkmu-xy6eGScUpV409FF095TzMnkJ-7nnk/s1600/whistles-marl-jersey-tube-skirt-dark-grey_04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJAlmqer11pbSQxD5-foH5My53oSWRMx8gUnYjFKBF8Vc2NHyY3zCVsihbQkFroHZA24FSc28xC9YhcqijHfH6mqbBYs_ncWTT9rCj2QvnEJkmu-xy6eGScUpV409FF095TzMnkJ-7nnk/s1600/whistles-marl-jersey-tube-skirt-dark-grey_04.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.whistles.com/women/clothing/skirts/marl-jersey-tube-skirt-19730.html?dwvar_marl-jersey-tube-skirt-19730_color=Dark%20Grey#start=1" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Whistles grey tube skirt - £25</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have the black also and it's a real wardrobe staple, so the grey was a no-brainer :-)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjM7XATw_t8Ez1gppWR7VHMA8j3NBDMoYNJvvCFWa8b51JalcMh45P_1A2_0XTmj5CV81qZSWpZ03ieRlfUgWRQ0_NuUDMVxR8HAKAesbgZmiCdH1vzb_fJhyegnhXecCSGDhu5tWLpuI/s1600/whistles-side-zip-knit-dress-navy_04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjM7XATw_t8Ez1gppWR7VHMA8j3NBDMoYNJvvCFWa8b51JalcMh45P_1A2_0XTmj5CV81qZSWpZ03ieRlfUgWRQ0_NuUDMVxR8HAKAesbgZmiCdH1vzb_fJhyegnhXecCSGDhu5tWLpuI/s1600/whistles-side-zip-knit-dress-navy_04.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.whistles.com/women/clothing/dresses/side-zip-knit-dress-18828.html?dwvar_side-zip-knit-dress-18828_color=Navy#start=1" target="_blank">Whistles navy size zip dress (nicer in real life!) £70</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was a bit random but just one of those odd ball impulse purchases that I tried on and looked good so I went for it.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGGw7n4hSjFYafs4eV_MUSaUOxeFTyNayaiWIBqRrK0UjESoW3ucV3r_odHXcRvkUA8YoXWJh49Evk5Gam6-g7hnQUNXT4yJOrycTfedD-tB7JJ0mE3AvuovQwT0XnJcvNuGLg4Wb_0c/s1600/whistles-smudge-print-small-clutch-pale-pink_03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGGw7n4hSjFYafs4eV_MUSaUOxeFTyNayaiWIBqRrK0UjESoW3ucV3r_odHXcRvkUA8YoXWJh49Evk5Gam6-g7hnQUNXT4yJOrycTfedD-tB7JJ0mE3AvuovQwT0XnJcvNuGLg4Wb_0c/s1600/whistles-smudge-print-small-clutch-pale-pink_03.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.whistles.com/women/sale/bags/smudge-print-small-clutch-19010.html?dwvar_smudge-print-small-clutch-19010_color=Pale%20Pink#start=1" target="_blank">Whistles smudge print clutch - £25</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just because it's pretty!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have been busy clearing out my stuff following a radical new no nonsense approach from a lady called Marie Kondo - which (so far) has worked even for me - a hoarder extrordinaire. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Post on that to follow .......</span></div>
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-38368254956326751862014-04-24T12:51:00.002+01:002014-04-24T12:52:53.570+01:00Catch upOh dear, I've been a bad blogger. So much to do, so little time to document it.<br />
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Let's cut to the chase and let you know what I've bought. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglYmNPz1XWqC7meVxh6QtT3u8b6bk7xdCkOhTUI_vMvf77FDbOQSLswtzUDqdhrRnrHN7TNP0Rw9PksGbceX8Aw2tNhhhrQD8i5gZtqqcTGU7zwZWbtz-NXkDA7zo00yn3Lwy_JUoqCIE/s1600/leela.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<ul>
<li>White Company navy jersey dress (in sale)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.toast.co.uk/product/C5BAG/BRETON+JERSEY+JACKET.htm" target="_blank">Toast breton jersey jacket</a> (in sale)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.toast.co.uk/product/womens+footwear/FFBAG/VICTORIA+PLIMSOLLS.htm?categoryref=%2fcategory.aspx%3fcategoryid%3dwomens%2520footwear%26seoterm%3dfootwear%26nav%3dwomen%26menu&pcat=womens+footwear&adimage=&clr=FFBAG_orange" target="_blank">Toast orange pumps</a> (not in sale alas but will wear them loads)</li>
<li>Gap checked shirts (in sale) - 1 x pink, 1 x blue</li>
<li>Ralph Lauren short sleeved cable sweater - white (TK Maxx)</li>
<li>LK Bennett Leela checked blanket coat. It may seem mad to buy a coat in the spring but I LOVED this and missed out in the sale a couple of years ago and lo and behold it popped up in an outlet store for - wait for it - £75 :-)</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglYmNPz1XWqC7meVxh6QtT3u8b6bk7xdCkOhTUI_vMvf77FDbOQSLswtzUDqdhrRnrHN7TNP0Rw9PksGbceX8Aw2tNhhhrQD8i5gZtqqcTGU7zwZWbtz-NXkDA7zo00yn3Lwy_JUoqCIE/s1600/leela.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglYmNPz1XWqC7meVxh6QtT3u8b6bk7xdCkOhTUI_vMvf77FDbOQSLswtzUDqdhrRnrHN7TNP0Rw9PksGbceX8Aw2tNhhhrQD8i5gZtqqcTGU7zwZWbtz-NXkDA7zo00yn3Lwy_JUoqCIE/s1600/leela.png" /></a><br />
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What I have also my eye on:<br />
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<a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/jackets-and-coats/blue-stripe-double-pocket-blazer_298674149" target="_blank">New Look breton jacket</a> £22.99 - yes I KNOW... but it's a different stripe pattern. And a bargain.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIsKuFu3pwvnu8hFPq1tiF3o9nccLAuDIX0p3v79CcILwSnHRhDyDgUL-MOOmv2Je4mSnarfDlbXiR9KbTDO4KPdkHKgCPvBbgGq8xoE8yDS_UATZscHtJc9f7a5Zt7LRwWFOwNG8Q4aU/s1600/newlookjkt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIsKuFu3pwvnu8hFPq1tiF3o9nccLAuDIX0p3v79CcILwSnHRhDyDgUL-MOOmv2Je4mSnarfDlbXiR9KbTDO4KPdkHKgCPvBbgGq8xoE8yDS_UATZscHtJc9f7a5Zt7LRwWFOwNG8Q4aU/s1600/newlookjkt.jpg" height="197" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/dresses/light-blue-short-sleeve-acid-wash-tunic-dress_305045040" target="_blank">New Look denim tunic dress</a> £24.99</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik73a2cL1bq3PJ5sVluIT4O2QS-RTrq1WFdzzOfYnfqnC16G2I-LAuFNJQG4JHN5uQFVzQYIW_XYhNcxIHsLNsCPVbm5zUg_Zc7cL6PX8uIgFvCyhnMcoevYpOhAzTyXlMLqgcQ50_tBA/s1600/new-look-dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik73a2cL1bq3PJ5sVluIT4O2QS-RTrq1WFdzzOfYnfqnC16G2I-LAuFNJQG4JHN5uQFVzQYIW_XYhNcxIHsLNsCPVbm5zUg_Zc7cL6PX8uIgFvCyhnMcoevYpOhAzTyXlMLqgcQ50_tBA/s1600/new-look-dress.jpg" height="197" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/jackets-and-coats/navy-single-button-blazer-_298670441" target="_blank">New Look navy jacket</a> £19.99</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3t92IBKvQ0NEwkiV82xm_2lk4Sx4QGcEsyj4wxQ1FIKRRfsJVGLTlUc3yoO2HgTlD7XA-hM3M4DzbQipkLh6s0uVHQ2lqqVP1fPzF43LpCanNCzMQKRHfIRo0NnwZkugSBhanobm5W70/s1600/nlook-navy-jkt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3t92IBKvQ0NEwkiV82xm_2lk4Sx4QGcEsyj4wxQ1FIKRRfsJVGLTlUc3yoO2HgTlD7XA-hM3M4DzbQipkLh6s0uVHQ2lqqVP1fPzF43LpCanNCzMQKRHfIRo0NnwZkugSBhanobm5W70/s1600/nlook-navy-jkt.jpg" height="197" width="320" /></a></div>
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A few recent pics...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPnMKhhVFFN-LR2AGcQDr7YgXzb_mWcXhCCR-IKAAy2SKvq9VXs1IJcGZ1nutmWZ48894AHEPjOSDVMsiq4Jro-VtixhZXXCSpwc-r4WZLhtEG8bWwZIWCv1o9330NiwGqBzHQtYf9Dk/s1600/cr-wh-jkt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPnMKhhVFFN-LR2AGcQDr7YgXzb_mWcXhCCR-IKAAy2SKvq9VXs1IJcGZ1nutmWZ48894AHEPjOSDVMsiq4Jro-VtixhZXXCSpwc-r4WZLhtEG8bWwZIWCv1o9330NiwGqBzHQtYf9Dk/s1600/cr-wh-jkt.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tried this on in TK Maxx - regret not buying it (story of my life!)- Cynthia Rowley white linen jacket</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUlASlWbQDUyEq131G4a48JvdcESfh7W7SGgqbEOQ-3ZKV3QfeaTZH33slBjF47yKmuAyhbrKT7p2UT34wcpSvOYf8mH9Ri51JvSoAV5_9eej1PDBuJEGDZJUvydYRKSJ_LMAi6s6EWhs/s1600/rl-swtr.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUlASlWbQDUyEq131G4a48JvdcESfh7W7SGgqbEOQ-3ZKV3QfeaTZH33slBjF47yKmuAyhbrKT7p2UT34wcpSvOYf8mH9Ri51JvSoAV5_9eej1PDBuJEGDZJUvydYRKSJ_LMAi6s6EWhs/s1600/rl-swtr.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ralph Lauren sweater from TK Maxx - bought instead of jacket above as figured would wear more...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODh3dByonqgGsxzzN3-YkjTBN3TKhyphenhypheng6opxIikY9lY4ES4iXAZIW8XtDOGxnRE4s6olTM4NOsJ9Yt53bUDv1pufEagMtSt_IQlFfylFp4pliVq180H3O9NkPF2TlZiR1TT8xI3yUwX_U/s1600/wc-navy-dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODh3dByonqgGsxzzN3-YkjTBN3TKhyphenhypheng6opxIikY9lY4ES4iXAZIW8XtDOGxnRE4s6olTM4NOsJ9Yt53bUDv1pufEagMtSt_IQlFfylFp4pliVq180H3O9NkPF2TlZiR1TT8xI3yUwX_U/s1600/wc-navy-dress.jpg" height="320" width="171" /></a></div>
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Navy White Company dress - Tesco white jersey biker jacket</div>
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Navy Longchamps bag</div>
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Orange Toast pumps</div>
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-79612882420953137132014-03-27T13:13:00.003+00:002014-03-27T13:16:09.851+00:00So in love with TOAST at the momentAnd not just the edible kind :-)<br />
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They do such lovely timeless basics. I'd been away for a while, pursuing Zara et al. But when I walked into Toast in Bath yesterday it felt like coming home. Maybe the style is just 'more me'. Thinking about it, I do, unhindered, tend to look a bit losse and baggy - which is (or can be) the Toast look. <br />
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But I defy anyone not to like these beauties.<br />
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<strong>Green 'boyfriend' sweater</strong> - so so soft. Long, forgiving, cosy. But not sack like. What's not to love? Er, well the price. I am waiting for the sale.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieTupYhwK106hBCg5ul-VH2uBVRrxyZnX82LS5jJ-9UAdxW9oDOPdmpLLaMlcMO54Tgzh9iMoVcMw1ODKCaSKel2h8FkgA-inZsdnVvEyML5viaYmz7r2OrgBzaiPV_FHZDYtrtKXEG4M/s1600/APHRA-BOYFRIEND-PULLOVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieTupYhwK106hBCg5ul-VH2uBVRrxyZnX82LS5jJ-9UAdxW9oDOPdmpLLaMlcMO54Tgzh9iMoVcMw1ODKCaSKel2h8FkgA-inZsdnVvEyML5viaYmz7r2OrgBzaiPV_FHZDYtrtKXEG4M/s1600/APHRA-BOYFRIEND-PULLOVER.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.toast.co.uk/product/womens+knitwear/CABAD/APHRA+BOYFRIEND+PULLOVER.htm?searchref=%2fresults.aspx%3fsrch_keywords%3daphra%26keywords%3daphra%26seoterm%3daphra%26&clr=CABAD_jade" target="_blank">Aphra Boyfiend Pullover £139</a></div>
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<strong>Breton tunic dress.</strong> This is lovely. And not a bad price really, especially considering how well Toast stuff lasts. Nice length - just above knee on me (5ft5).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4z4L7AkBwyt7fY7M0bBUg0xSBKR4lKA_545ggksxUbNZAkvYTNoZk6M_vfw7U0OlWczKPNFl2ipCQSZpv6jhrvQIvcifbf6bRsK_oZT2BAq0-sohnu4hvE_b3QS969pN8wbxsoLwZyw/s1600/BRETON-TUNIC-DRESS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4z4L7AkBwyt7fY7M0bBUg0xSBKR4lKA_545ggksxUbNZAkvYTNoZk6M_vfw7U0OlWczKPNFl2ipCQSZpv6jhrvQIvcifbf6bRsK_oZT2BAq0-sohnu4hvE_b3QS969pN8wbxsoLwZyw/s1600/BRETON-TUNIC-DRESS.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.toast.co.uk/product/womens+jersey+and+tees/C6BAZ/BRETON+TUNIC+DRESS.htm?searchref=%2fresults.aspx%3fsrch_keywords%3dbreton%2520tunic%26keywords%3dbreton%2520tunic%26seoterm%3dbreton%2520tunic%26&clr=C6BAZ_navyantiquewhite" target="_blank">Breton Tunic Dress £69</a></div>
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<strong>Merino Waterfall coat</strong>. I didn't try this on, but it looked sublime on the mannequin. Another 'snap it up in the sale' item for sure.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71Wb-o1eMfy3Cq3nedPHi-oX50FDFzRiEnFEQlq9t2Ja2dotwZtZZHEsC5ss56II56V9wfFZkdVykKCMZKmbmwwQ5AtAUvW-FHaLMzDuvKEschNshLrvi1drKlYp-5jDyHsH-wv6zr9Y/s1600/WATERFALL-MILANO-COAT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71Wb-o1eMfy3Cq3nedPHi-oX50FDFzRiEnFEQlq9t2Ja2dotwZtZZHEsC5ss56II56V9wfFZkdVykKCMZKmbmwwQ5AtAUvW-FHaLMzDuvKEschNshLrvi1drKlYp-5jDyHsH-wv6zr9Y/s1600/WATERFALL-MILANO-COAT.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.toast.co.uk/product/womens+coats+and+jackets/C0BZA/WATERFALL+MILANO+COAT.htm?categoryref=%2fcategory.aspx%3fcategoryid%3dwomens%2520coats%2520and%2520jackets%26seoterm%3dcoats%2520and%2520jackets%26nav%3dwomen%26menu&pcat=womens+coats+and+jackets&adimage=&clr=C0BZA_navy" target="_blank">Waterfall Milano Coat £245</a></div>
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<strong>Denim coat</strong>. Just love it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWwuHqfvTU3gfVgo4DLQ59DgsHQba9rQ9Gvmu_sEukGITHB6gEzsiHg5Ot2pE_lw9dxwCPnIsMuC8CQFSM-A1a9j8XG5KdRR0QOLDLyX28PBOd80u5UZ0emxu9eYEryWLG0A-tYNmbmY/s1600/DENIM-JEANS-COAT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWwuHqfvTU3gfVgo4DLQ59DgsHQba9rQ9Gvmu_sEukGITHB6gEzsiHg5Ot2pE_lw9dxwCPnIsMuC8CQFSM-A1a9j8XG5KdRR0QOLDLyX28PBOd80u5UZ0emxu9eYEryWLG0A-tYNmbmY/s1600/DENIM-JEANS-COAT.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.toast.co.uk/product/womens+coats+and+jackets/C0BAK/DENIM+JEANS+COAT.htm?searchref=%2fresults.aspx%3fsrch_keywords%3djeans%2520coat%26keywords%3djeans%2520coat%26seoterm%3djeans%2520coat%26&clr=C0BAK_indigo" target="_blank">Denim Jeans Coat £195</a></div>
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<strong>Boxy breton top</strong>. Surprisingly the boxiness looked good, and not too boxy, jut not clingy, which is sometimes an issue with stripy tops. Being of a larger bosom, I sometimes struggle with 'wavy' lines not straight stripes. Not with this one. Love the elbow patches with contrast direction stripes too!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS3Wf4dzKInNJTlhSlZa8_9BFGoMATWlgiV6h97dQY8q-FgcXVVu1MGK4W8OAUkXKffpm5bUe46FXfuYKBwIcsukpDKH1K_BvLodUZonVZJduDdl_kvYRSu-r2Owe6Al1KEEH1DOaZWz0/s1600/BOXY-BRETON-TEE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS3Wf4dzKInNJTlhSlZa8_9BFGoMATWlgiV6h97dQY8q-FgcXVVu1MGK4W8OAUkXKffpm5bUe46FXfuYKBwIcsukpDKH1K_BvLodUZonVZJduDdl_kvYRSu-r2Owe6Al1KEEH1DOaZWz0/s1600/BOXY-BRETON-TEE.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.toast.co.uk/product/womens+jersey+and+tees/C6BAA/BOXY+BRETON+TEE.htm?searchref=%2fresults.aspx%3fsrch_keywords%3dboxy%2520breton%26keywords%3dboxy%2520breton%26seoterm%3dboxy%2520breton%26&clr=C6BAA_charcoalmelangegullgrey" target="_blank">Boxy Breton Tee £49</a></div>
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Last but not least I love this <strong>tunic,</strong> which has a sweatshirt type consistency. Especially love the neckline. It's on my sale wish list.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWUwpNCB1N_uoMfboS1yFSYighTRiRAP-Uh8h13itT3wC3KWH5CfbatuZh0ImIhEE8v1XGPCmEI1RAC9iZH9vHjfFcWldTQ05wwwsKvOEfl0M3k2kEjgi-Sq1skzUTh20KCgq1VtsAoM/s1600/MARLED-LOOPBACK-TUNIC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWUwpNCB1N_uoMfboS1yFSYighTRiRAP-Uh8h13itT3wC3KWH5CfbatuZh0ImIhEE8v1XGPCmEI1RAC9iZH9vHjfFcWldTQ05wwwsKvOEfl0M3k2kEjgi-Sq1skzUTh20KCgq1VtsAoM/s1600/MARLED-LOOPBACK-TUNIC.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.toast.co.uk/product/womens+dresses+and+tunics/C1BZE/MARLED+LOOPBACK+TUNIC.htm?categoryref=%2fcategory.aspx%3fcategoryid%3dwomens%2520dresses%2520and%2520tunics%26seoterm%3ddresses%2520and%2520tunics%26nav%3dwomen%26menu&pcat=womens+dresses+and+tunics&adimage=&clr=C1BZE_indigoecru" target="_blank">Marled Loopback Tunic £85</a></div>
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I'm afraid I forgot to take changing room photos in Toast, but I did take some in River Island. <br />
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I saw this coat there. I liked it apart from the fact that the checks at the seams didn't match up, which looked very odd indeed. A shame as it was a nice coat, a very useful weight for the (hopefully soon to arrive) Spring - and only £40.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1q6-uQXudU0rPbfLJEDewP7dYgqCp2dNADuCDcraoYEgXr-rQhp9xKtj1ahKNnhhUia94qEQj1fqe-VBqjCh3fGUlvVEbaXMxDv2E3jgIda7yyAvrpc2o6BF8sNcWlUTXBfC5ZmDhjMY/s1600/check-coat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1q6-uQXudU0rPbfLJEDewP7dYgqCp2dNADuCDcraoYEgXr-rQhp9xKtj1ahKNnhhUia94qEQj1fqe-VBqjCh3fGUlvVEbaXMxDv2E3jgIda7yyAvrpc2o6BF8sNcWlUTXBfC5ZmDhjMY/s1600/check-coat.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.riverisland.com/women/coats--jackets/blazers/Black-check-longline-jersey-blazer-651556" target="_blank">Check coat - River Island - £40</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_OJeEF-WxrJV-aBkMU-I8eND0mVwG85tWbxQzb4IIyirkkBU27PS0CWa4DfiyP-lRF11YlXBDGkVVgmAGmnwWf1OALm0gAP_qqq1aQmw4TCLUaNj8sdQ20ga931ziykfzffhed8zW4A/s1600/coat1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_OJeEF-WxrJV-aBkMU-I8eND0mVwG85tWbxQzb4IIyirkkBU27PS0CWa4DfiyP-lRF11YlXBDGkVVgmAGmnwWf1OALm0gAP_qqq1aQmw4TCLUaNj8sdQ20ga931ziykfzffhed8zW4A/s1600/coat1.jpg" height="400" width="192" /></a></div>
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Nice coat.....(from the front)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MomlL42Vex6Jlj9dyy4-xjFs7qNoElQcHy3Cuh1rhbj9zFWTFtqZC1YSLfSX5mxTn8839zGnRfPpId9b85KWkVEOUCtbXrKCN720-CLWoc-eMDAHpiHAtj5KA1UFzWZg2nHPo0qBPss/s1600/photo+(10).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MomlL42Vex6Jlj9dyy4-xjFs7qNoElQcHy3Cuh1rhbj9zFWTFtqZC1YSLfSX5mxTn8839zGnRfPpId9b85KWkVEOUCtbXrKCN720-CLWoc-eMDAHpiHAtj5KA1UFzWZg2nHPo0qBPss/s1600/photo+(10).JPG" height="400" width="240" /></a></div>
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Shame about the non-matching side seams - pet hate. </div>
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(You don't get that in Toast....)</div>
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By the way, I would urge people to get themselves to Gap. I also got a bit of a haul in there. They have up to 50% off. I bought:<br />
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These dresses - one chambray, one navy - down to £29 <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7gtjnok5ZWTszX9e7u9183R811Oq80hcGHQIMtAV2VXTDE_EMFE-znTSoGU9fKoMJjJs7DB0PKQ_l1a1M0t0ziB3gMO8hDaRnppHIi4e-0Vo-KPIi17Wkubg6oGm8kPpA1d0HGZZfjo/s1600/chambray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7gtjnok5ZWTszX9e7u9183R811Oq80hcGHQIMtAV2VXTDE_EMFE-znTSoGU9fKoMJjJs7DB0PKQ_l1a1M0t0ziB3gMO8hDaRnppHIi4e-0Vo-KPIi17Wkubg6oGm8kPpA1d0HGZZfjo/s1600/chambray.jpg" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0HnVzv-rmueKnf_dkmo6IltpyuNTqNASTYFkCzioM20SL7AJypedmcl1pfLSQ138UKtZZXBbMI-ImBESASMuz5Zq6awxR4gGnR947KRL12Q4IgYpuUh8QxlBpi3wsRftdaG23R-AHNoc/s1600/navy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0HnVzv-rmueKnf_dkmo6IltpyuNTqNASTYFkCzioM20SL7AJypedmcl1pfLSQ138UKtZZXBbMI-ImBESASMuz5Zq6awxR4gGnR947KRL12Q4IgYpuUh8QxlBpi3wsRftdaG23R-AHNoc/s1600/navy.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.gap.co.uk/browse/product.do?cid=1010047&vid=1&pid=000941884001" target="_blank">Gap dresses - £29</a></div>
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This sweater - love the waffle knit £17.48<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpJV0me8oXM2mte-Lq1VqR94jGJ7J9ixMVJ3FfNCf_o-8OT-MgJaNBa64P9PqRITW_Y0tsRySjRnsWIkF0de8XD6j2YkNOow8Jp07YCw5-8Hp1rALS9gxy7adZ2TN0t9DpDiyP8TdsJY/s1600/waffle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpJV0me8oXM2mte-Lq1VqR94jGJ7J9ixMVJ3FfNCf_o-8OT-MgJaNBa64P9PqRITW_Y0tsRySjRnsWIkF0de8XD6j2YkNOow8Jp07YCw5-8Hp1rALS9gxy7adZ2TN0t9DpDiyP8TdsJY/s1600/waffle.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.gap.co.uk/browse/product.do?cid=1010053&vid=1&pid=000941370003" target="_blank">Waffle sweater - £17.48</a></div>
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The White Company also have a sale on (up to 50%) and I nearly bought <a href="http://www.thewhitecompany.com/clothing/last-chance-to-buy/knitted-peacoat--navy/" target="_blank">this knitted peacoat, as they call it, now sold out online but a few instore</a>, but decided it would not wash well (never have much success with knitted jackets)... I reserve the right to change my mind though!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJoF01_WUpI5tBmmWTZcDXmibtmrRVXA6hvlB742u_Vwcif0IHR0OIg5oSEQfPDGwC6JujJZ_Fpt7rU4XJyfSWmtdG5818t2puL56KeDz6EcAnSORks7ScYrb8WNfkfzN9BTDVP1DzDk/s1600/pea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJoF01_WUpI5tBmmWTZcDXmibtmrRVXA6hvlB742u_Vwcif0IHR0OIg5oSEQfPDGwC6JujJZ_Fpt7rU4XJyfSWmtdG5818t2puL56KeDz6EcAnSORks7ScYrb8WNfkfzN9BTDVP1DzDk/s1600/pea.jpg" height="320" width="318" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thewhitecompany.com/clothing/last-chance-to-buy/knitted-peacoat--navy/" target="_blank">White Company Knitted Pea-coat</a> £99</div>
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-81302263613461981692014-03-20T12:34:00.003+00:002014-03-20T14:17:23.143+00:00The bag of doom<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It occurred to me yesterday that the most boring ‘pieces’
(fashion speak alert!) I own are the most useful and the stuff I turn to most
often. Like this:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEged54_VzZZCes0BPTPR1_758Crf8PZzW55JZUo05HVe1CKt8wrUjAGMQ54ycdO2wvSPKbEUGmvfA0pvZ2kT6rfZfwrPIHjvsfWDcBeTDnyXptlOkv1HiE8ticqY7_OazbIywlh0Pka2DY/s1600/Gail%2520Pencil%2520Skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEged54_VzZZCes0BPTPR1_758Crf8PZzW55JZUo05HVe1CKt8wrUjAGMQ54ycdO2wvSPKbEUGmvfA0pvZ2kT6rfZfwrPIHjvsfWDcBeTDnyXptlOkv1HiE8ticqY7_OazbIywlh0Pka2DY/s1600/Gail%2520Pencil%2520Skirt.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.lkbennett.com/Clothing/Skirts/Gail-Pencil-Skirt/p/SKGAILNYLONMIXBlackBlack?nr=2&product=2" target="_blank">LK Bennett Gail Pencil Skirt £125</a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes: they will usually be black, unexciting and mundane. But
sadly (in terms of my own life and opportunity) that makes them the most wearable.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I suppose it loosely ties in with the whole minimal wardrobe
/ capsule thing. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have reached this state
of affairs following several grapples with my wardrobe last year which resulted
in a pretty neat wardrobe - if I do say so myself – but also in a huge, indeterminate
and unwieldy ‘bag of doom’. Like a restless sea, the bag of doom is a constantly
shifting creature. The bag of doom contains stuff which, at any moment in time,
is out of favour because: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(a) it doesn’t suit my
current mood or preferences; </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(b) it is say, green, and my capsule is taupe (OCD overload);</i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(c) it is more 'individual' / detailed etc - which means more effort is required to contrive an interesting outfit. </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And time, sadly, is what I lack.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I dare not ditch the 'bag of doom' entirely, as come the
following month (sometimes even the following week), something in it will call
to me, or an inner voice of my own will cry out for something red, something
purple, and the contents will suddenly go from ‘banished’ to ‘most necessary’. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This does result in a rather large and unsightly storage problem -
but, putting that aside, it’s the best compromise I have been able to come up
with in my 40-odd years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thankfully
that’s just what Ikea blue bags, and spare rooms (and wasted hours scurrying
between the two) were made for, no?</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">*******</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Putting aside the boring but necessary (and the fact that I actually
need a replacement black pair!), let’s look at the unnecessary but attractive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I want these:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuedGtSAtC5onIjqEX3DllDGBFGdzZZW1G059qWpcXlTPAxkaQd1jy_cke2ptAII8BnnWoL06hZz7EZWB0azGdTsep0sxc3toqYpn96R4gqIF-IVHNAA5KYOLnguyfrCjudTv5S8iQpc/s1600/chester-red.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuedGtSAtC5onIjqEX3DllDGBFGdzZZW1G059qWpcXlTPAxkaQd1jy_cke2ptAII8BnnWoL06hZz7EZWB0azGdTsep0sxc3toqYpn96R4gqIF-IVHNAA5KYOLnguyfrCjudTv5S8iQpc/s1600/chester-red.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/loafers-lace-ups/chester/invt/123049" target="_blank"> Russell & Bromley Chester - red - £165</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And these:</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpC56AEUkK8f2p5XFkLQg0f8nT8a_ccYnRk3XIcmwmxaQHukVOMcvgkE9i0QNyAVnNLRgJwvWi5jqzsdIg_TjSpTOYPZmIb9hPfT3H6nGTh1fg-N8DuQXR2JFmahXHafbEOjfs2d4B9ec/s1600/chester-rose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpC56AEUkK8f2p5XFkLQg0f8nT8a_ccYnRk3XIcmwmxaQHukVOMcvgkE9i0QNyAVnNLRgJwvWi5jqzsdIg_TjSpTOYPZmIb9hPfT3H6nGTh1fg-N8DuQXR2JFmahXHafbEOjfs2d4B9ec/s1600/chester-rose.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/loafers-lace-ups/chester/invt/123044" target="_blank">Russell & Bromley Chester - Rose - £165</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-spacerun: yes;">And these:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOsOpinZZ4Hjf8dGE11yRZ9zzDyKFVpq24Y_CX863RrUDXpvoAHU3ViXkWi8jHuhRg2b0ABL4mx4LCJSsuwPRvCPKm69hS7fq95Ueemxyjuo3I5p6MDAPeOdZKhqG9vlG3Dr7K22X5Y0/s1600/chester-blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOsOpinZZ4Hjf8dGE11yRZ9zzDyKFVpq24Y_CX863RrUDXpvoAHU3ViXkWi8jHuhRg2b0ABL4mx4LCJSsuwPRvCPKm69hS7fq95Ueemxyjuo3I5p6MDAPeOdZKhqG9vlG3Dr7K22X5Y0/s1600/chester-blue.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/loafers-lace-ups/chester/invt/123046" target="_blank">Russell & Bromley Chester loafer - blue - £165<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></a></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Or possibly all 3. <em>(Disclaimer: I don't work for Russell & Bromley, I just have an unhealthy addiction to their wares.)</em></span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As well as pondering the likely cost per wear of red, blush and pale blue respectively (likely candidates for the bag of doom if ever I saw any), I am
currently evaluating what else I could spend £495 on, should I just happen to have
that at my disposal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-spacerun: yes;">To be continued...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">* * * * * * *</span></span></div>
ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-57157596070650522902014-03-14T16:48:00.005+00:002014-03-14T16:51:20.808+00:00Should've bought that crumpled ragNamely - this (spied in TK Maxx, by Sisley)..... <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgog2HgpILj9fo3iENj-XM68zqDe_rhNJTKLz5wUNgf3D0PXwEQMx7b9TMQLIOwZOdd1j6iRlC0OyxSUsZpKuj1PaJ5IwBnAiKzXKcGdw9W1NwzLe7yFFvvLEfddFmJGYr9c8rt2DUybO4/s1600/mac2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgog2HgpILj9fo3iENj-XM68zqDe_rhNJTKLz5wUNgf3D0PXwEQMx7b9TMQLIOwZOdd1j6iRlC0OyxSUsZpKuj1PaJ5IwBnAiKzXKcGdw9W1NwzLe7yFFvvLEfddFmJGYr9c8rt2DUybO4/s1600/mac2.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doesn't look too attractive on the hanger, does it?</td></tr>
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It looked better on, I think:<br />
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In other news, I bought this (M&S Autograph), but sort of wish I hadn't. More like a jumper than a dress. Rides ever upwards. :-/ Hence has limited wearage, other than as a tunic, which is pretty inconvenient seeing as the weather is warming up. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinKjp_1I1gpMSS1NmeVHwlsCrfumfeDTV0_3lYd4sOi_JyFPXTG0CNPKrwT8tR_MaH2CbHY4wd8Updtn0eyBIj4vr6VC99R-amXLH86PvyCLc4NIcFjSRdMqlLOnMPKlA2vUrpBq8hMu4/s1600/stripy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinKjp_1I1gpMSS1NmeVHwlsCrfumfeDTV0_3lYd4sOi_JyFPXTG0CNPKrwT8tR_MaH2CbHY4wd8Updtn0eyBIj4vr6VC99R-amXLH86PvyCLc4NIcFjSRdMqlLOnMPKlA2vUrpBq8hMu4/s1600/stripy.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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C'est la vie chez ASH.<br />
<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-89691599696996199752014-03-06T13:03:00.003+00:002014-03-06T13:07:46.016+00:00Zip code, I think I love youI went out today to return the awful (with apologies to anyone who actually liked them) 'Guess' sneakers. <br />
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Job done, I wandered over to Russell and Bromley to see if they had recovered from their mysterious fire. Things were even more surreal today. Immaculately coiffed young men kept emerging from the basement wearing blue surgical style dust masks with their hands black from soot. I didn't ask.<br />
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Now I don't know about your experiences there, but the staff still doggedly persist in bringing out 'matching' bags every time you try on shoes. It's quite quaint and I normally humour them (while secretly being a bit irritated) by making appropriate noises. This time however, I actually had a proper look (in a fairly desultory way to pass the time) but wow I was glad I did: what a bag!<br />
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I give you my new crush: <a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/cross-body/zip-code/invt/704634" target="_blank">ZIP CODE</a>. Possibly the cutest and best and most ingenious cross body bag I've seen for many a year.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFf5pQ7h0xcZPbPMkyHeUENn9wqd9Mhvf3HPooQpa-cor1y63XJsuxuxTDsGaUuChwLzO9QqrQeiB4hPDenZpt9uoc2JxvMcNQLhS7PIE002X2a5bdkU4z6lIOgCI_GGilaDpUtr_08yU/s1600/bag2-flipped.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFf5pQ7h0xcZPbPMkyHeUENn9wqd9Mhvf3HPooQpa-cor1y63XJsuxuxTDsGaUuChwLzO9QqrQeiB4hPDenZpt9uoc2JxvMcNQLhS7PIE002X2a5bdkU4z6lIOgCI_GGilaDpUtr_08yU/s1600/bag2-flipped.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/cross-body/zip-code/invt/704634" target="_blank">'Zip Code' Cross Body bag - Russell & Bromley £145</a></div>
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Reader, I bought it. I came away shoe-less sadly, as my size was out of stock.But I am so happy with this bag.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2BwbRc4JhEADPNitSOdsRf1qBRmJjut-QQQ6G8lBCBklKONHaDHO7gnkqh8SqseEVmMe036L1s7nQ8_lsN75Gkq3qJ0o6EASSJvvyn5BSS7P186EfREE7Bw8b2qCugFKbf0QFVF268rk/s1600/bag3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2BwbRc4JhEADPNitSOdsRf1qBRmJjut-QQQ6G8lBCBklKONHaDHO7gnkqh8SqseEVmMe036L1s7nQ8_lsN75Gkq3qJ0o6EASSJvvyn5BSS7P186EfREE7Bw8b2qCugFKbf0QFVF268rk/s1600/bag3.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBygIdbsYiuGf_LueWxgPgZn89SHOry3XMkVVVy77S0NUYfFy5I9zDyRslcbE86yDixOslFKCQ4JvCWYX1HVWxnsPVRADvj6fFeBIg6zFAl4qIntOhtX70yfppfesY2QvPQ8WNCSaBVoc/s1600/bag4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBygIdbsYiuGf_LueWxgPgZn89SHOry3XMkVVVy77S0NUYfFy5I9zDyRslcbE86yDixOslFKCQ4JvCWYX1HVWxnsPVRADvj6fFeBIg6zFAl4qIntOhtX70yfppfesY2QvPQ8WNCSaBVoc/s1600/bag4.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is cleverly designed inside (a bit 'a-la-Hindmarch') with self contained card slots and pockets. These are in the centre of the bag between the 2 outer zipped compartments. You wouldn't need a wallet, just a coin purse. There's another useful open pocket at the back of the bag. The two halves of the bag snap together even when the top flap is left undone (I loved this bit - am easily impressed!) - as magnets are sewn into each side. <br />
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The size is perfect, the strap length is perfect. The leather (lovely textured grainy effect) is perfect. The colour is perfect. I could go on. I simply just fell in love with this bag. It has enough to contain all you need for a night out, or a shopping trip. It's about 20cm wide and 17cm high, so it's not a general everyday bag, it's not large enough, but it's well deigned for what it needs to do. <br />
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I bought the navy, althogh it's available in several other colours and finishes (even glitter to match the sneakers I blogged about the other day! Bit OTT that would be maybe...)<br />
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The only snag is that it's a bit pricey at £145 but I was in need of a pick me up and today, this bag was the answer. I will get so much use and enjoyment from it. :-) <br />
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<em> I bought this bag with my own money and have not been paid to review it. I genuinely love it and wanted to share.</em> <br />
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-28810026069034312892014-03-04T13:57:00.005+00:002014-03-04T14:08:19.985+00:00HowlHere are the sneakers from yesterday, which (unsurprisingly) didn't feature large on any theoretical wish list. They just happened to be "there" when I was in a fug of trainer mania. They will be returned. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcLGQ5BB18UK3mKA6coSTwwuMgDxi7xwKbd_OREloLGAkzzQKH4vxike4tbCQjm8kv7UbmFwhdwxn0OarS4LOn8LpBuGKqqHdji3M0D-4YsuMa0JMaAaVeRT1ug8xesYGoobtPl1C2WTE/s1600/ar2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcLGQ5BB18UK3mKA6coSTwwuMgDxi7xwKbd_OREloLGAkzzQKH4vxike4tbCQjm8kv7UbmFwhdwxn0OarS4LOn8LpBuGKqqHdji3M0D-4YsuMa0JMaAaVeRT1ug8xesYGoobtPl1C2WTE/s1600/ar2.jpg" height="257" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuPg8Z9HNXLbCxqXXVchkIhrLy4QxGgrB54NOhA-k9T8YdW6aKK50954DV7lQJq_LcgZRRqG_8V8w1YhgkoCpZkjJneJJWboKSY0sR_4RqG4sYEemXFCxNMUwxBROtDPIA5LUhBfeABkc/s1600/ar3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuPg8Z9HNXLbCxqXXVchkIhrLy4QxGgrB54NOhA-k9T8YdW6aKK50954DV7lQJq_LcgZRRqG_8V8w1YhgkoCpZkjJneJJWboKSY0sR_4RqG4sYEemXFCxNMUwxBROtDPIA5LUhBfeABkc/s1600/ar3.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Sorry photos are upside down, they would not let me correct 'em - it's a sign, I'm convinced!) </td></tr>
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And one of my January sale purchases: a grey loose fit sweater from The White Company. <br />
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Reduced to £30. At first I thought I'd blundered badly as the fluff came off and stuck to everything.... but I worked through the pain and the excess fluff eventually ran out. It's now a useful workhorse basic.<br />
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Worn with Whistles tube skirt (longer version), Gap 'Pure Body' long sleeved top, Mulberry Antony messenger bag and Russell & Bromley Aquitalia ankle boots. </div>
<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-38186871117721395992014-03-03T23:13:00.002+00:002014-03-03T23:52:41.172+00:00Indecision. I'm in 'save or splurge' befuddlement.<br />
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What started it all off was 'the sneaker'. A must have item, which, as seen when browsing seamlessly through the 'all is beautiful' land of net-a-porter and so on, looks so alluring, so up to date and so easy to incorporate seamlessly into one's wardrobe. Now browsing the likes of net-a-porter for inspiration is all very well, but I am lost in the mire. I am swamped by sneakers. </div>
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My head is going 'ow ow ow' and I have a virtual shopping list as long as you like, which brings me back to the title of the post. (I had better prefix this post by saying I am always very late to the party with matters such as this - i.e. sneakers - and so apologise in advance for my insane ramblings about something which any and all readers probably have sussed long ago!)</div>
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Here's a quick round up of what 's been doing the rounds in my head. I shall divide and conquer my wish into 'flat' and 'high'. </div>
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<b>First flats.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg47aX_mCVOtrJXsmJaPwnJ91KlT-Xe0pKjuHL49KiVr1GTSeSv9_cEgU20EfYERbHaHg_s2tPiiBwioZjVrg33JOnovHTI-fzm9mbmxkngn2V-BLmUqCxjzSi9UQY5JoNn3x1Ky4crcB4/s1600/rb-sneaker-glitter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg47aX_mCVOtrJXsmJaPwnJ91KlT-Xe0pKjuHL49KiVr1GTSeSv9_cEgU20EfYERbHaHg_s2tPiiBwioZjVrg33JOnovHTI-fzm9mbmxkngn2V-BLmUqCxjzSi9UQY5JoNn3x1Ky4crcB4/s1600/rb-sneaker-glitter.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><i>Item</i>: <a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/high-tops-sneakers/skater/invt/104708" target="_blank">Russell & Bromley 'Skater' in Glitter - £125</a></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><i>Dilemma</i>: hmm how much longevity here?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBkAYU0UPvgTbUIi3Hn5hanLk42zJ6lT_bOL34BrFfGACvljsDztgfVXvtl5Y_WBawNHtZadCKGOuHzE6I1K3n_nTBcRSjSlmuUGJfu-LNbon4LwkHaxERM41r0DxRovruGqd69EW3P-w/s1600/rb-skater-black.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBkAYU0UPvgTbUIi3Hn5hanLk42zJ6lT_bOL34BrFfGACvljsDztgfVXvtl5Y_WBawNHtZadCKGOuHzE6I1K3n_nTBcRSjSlmuUGJfu-LNbon4LwkHaxERM41r0DxRovruGqd69EW3P-w/s1600/rb-skater-black.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Or maybe black would be better? </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><i>Item</i>: <a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/high-tops-sneakers/skater/invt/104705" target="_blank">Russell & Bromley 'Skater' £125</a></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><i>Dilemma</i>: But then again black is maybe a tad boring and by the way your perfectly good black Converse do not currently work with anything so why buy more black you daft woman? (That's me talking to myself, you understand...)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPMY_traqXg1AtBc9DNDeW80rFwAO3Wk7HeHFGkKByfXxLmBodtwAe2-mZsLSNTxrWcffr0nTTb8eUhUocMuYHUeYZsp7zbYcolnVFAYq-QM2AQyDe4hfNS3QwSe5sG7WlXuZ7Y7jxNE/s1600/mint-vel-sneakers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPMY_traqXg1AtBc9DNDeW80rFwAO3Wk7HeHFGkKByfXxLmBodtwAe2-mZsLSNTxrWcffr0nTTb8eUhUocMuYHUeYZsp7zbYcolnVFAYq-QM2AQyDe4hfNS3QwSe5sG7WlXuZ7Y7jxNE/s1600/mint-vel-sneakers.jpg" height="320" width="231" /></a></div>
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<i>Item</i>: <a href="http://www.mintvelvet.co.uk/-grey-suede-&-metallic-plimsolls-/shoes/mint-v/fcp-product/3517" target="_blank">Mint Velvet Plimsolls - £89</a></div>
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<i>Dilemma</i>: see above</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-hUvoTHl8Iyaf6BHjedfpTx_c4JGNcXeHZNrl49sBMdbAHMG0icOpNrou35aKjOE5a-Y-o0CTqm7sJvibyuU8hj9hn3z-gGS4fVzQjGN5vzNEhmeKyzHOcLrsUrbo9GGHmXpjMrghmU/s1600/ash-jungle-glitter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-hUvoTHl8Iyaf6BHjedfpTx_c4JGNcXeHZNrl49sBMdbAHMG0icOpNrou35aKjOE5a-Y-o0CTqm7sJvibyuU8hj9hn3z-gGS4fVzQjGN5vzNEhmeKyzHOcLrsUrbo9GGHmXpjMrghmU/s1600/ash-jungle-glitter.jpg" height="320" width="215" /></a></div>
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<i>Item</i>: <a href="http://www.my-wardrobe.com/ash/jungle-glitter-slip-on-sneaker-121058" target="_blank">Ash Jungle Glitter slip on - My Wardrobe £89</a></div>
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<i>Dilemma</i>: see above - black again plus the super high sole is a bit clown like? (Bargain though - Russell & Bromley do you read me?)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLv3EvxKogHRNnOWs_nvceRPX_lbwdQpUT0FBCyByqVPmz0eHnK5WYQdiJAyKUVVjdSuv16KM5ZeyKiZFpwEddpPoo66L-0uzM1-w4CQ6u5wxH_l_Pv4-PbKdyUa6BltzAPqFkNy2x9wQ/s1600/ugg-sneakers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLv3EvxKogHRNnOWs_nvceRPX_lbwdQpUT0FBCyByqVPmz0eHnK5WYQdiJAyKUVVjdSuv16KM5ZeyKiZFpwEddpPoo66L-0uzM1-w4CQ6u5wxH_l_Pv4-PbKdyUa6BltzAPqFkNy2x9wQ/s1600/ugg-sneakers.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Item</i>: <a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/product/447705" target="_blank">Ugg studded sneakers from The Outnet - £60</a></div>
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<i>Dilemma</i>(s): Lined partly with sheepskin these would no doubt be warm which is not necessarily a bad thing. But how would that cope with bare feet and is that such a good idea for s spring / summer item? Also compounded by above 'more black' dilemma</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDYWwuTnmU47ae2Nw4daF0sW9P5S62OihMhxjJbixUrOzXSeATrxH4kMOPJhEA75jFHr1YA7eotlvUIWiZ3kZk_jSeyzn1MksnZe-ZuxFo9B4iZkEeHjK0Y-ANWBysLmhva2V-W_3GtC8/s1600/dkny-sneakers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDYWwuTnmU47ae2Nw4daF0sW9P5S62OihMhxjJbixUrOzXSeATrxH4kMOPJhEA75jFHr1YA7eotlvUIWiZ3kZk_jSeyzn1MksnZe-ZuxFo9B4iZkEeHjK0Y-ANWBysLmhva2V-W_3GtC8/s1600/dkny-sneakers.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Item</i>: <a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/product/417396" target="_blank">DKNY 'Blair' sneakers - The Outnet,</a> £60.50</div>
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<i>Dilemma</i>: Not black, but would probably tire of raspberry, not being a big wearer of the shade. </div>
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Oh and there was one non-sneaker which made it onto the wish (or whatever) list too. Which is probably the only sensible thing on there as it would bring new life to my boyfriend jeans with which I had another tussle at the weekend which amused and depressed me in equal measure. A good look was not obtained, let's just say. A topic for another day perhaps!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeBG8rarJs4M1PCnc4e2u3NkMRDL67iVICHUM01BOfGaph1ByINsP2nNPnoYsN9Ingv2kEHjnl7jkFkVlrpYV2CwB-MgopG4p0Ex1bqtb_WaSUvUBImfkn8SPCMxuYkuiMA_8OQ_PO6k/s1600/rb-brogues.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeBG8rarJs4M1PCnc4e2u3NkMRDL67iVICHUM01BOfGaph1ByINsP2nNPnoYsN9Ingv2kEHjnl7jkFkVlrpYV2CwB-MgopG4p0Ex1bqtb_WaSUvUBImfkn8SPCMxuYkuiMA_8OQ_PO6k/s1600/rb-brogues.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/loafers-lace-ups/jeeves/invt/123031" target="_blank">Russell & Bromley 'Jeeves' brogues in rose gold. £165</a></div>
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<b>Now the 'highs' </b>(technical term, you know what I mean hopefully!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCoGJ-VUvf18hqUhjOWQVaxdcPk8bXFtrpbRMk3aJDHeZclci_And-VAnLGopEvTwcOr1imw4UPRYyMAya7d75wu2lfHKsGmAPa3JoEZk_evRk2BW4Qb1Dw2mNNW5zT4Ca9EbFyS3sbrA/s1600/ash-bea-midnight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCoGJ-VUvf18hqUhjOWQVaxdcPk8bXFtrpbRMk3aJDHeZclci_And-VAnLGopEvTwcOr1imw4UPRYyMAya7d75wu2lfHKsGmAPa3JoEZk_evRk2BW4Qb1Dw2mNNW5zT4Ca9EbFyS3sbrA/s1600/ash-bea-midnight.jpg" height="320" width="215" /></a></div>
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<i>Item</i>: <a href="http://www.my-wardrobe.com/ash/midnight-bea-suede-wedge-trainer-466055" target="_blank">Ash 'Bea' midnight. Er, from My Wardrobe I think.</a> £179. Losing the plot a bit at this stage. </div>
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<i>Quandry</i>: Love the midnight. Love the name Ash (geddit) plus 'Bea' - it's a personalised number plate in a shoe! Not so love the white sole though. </div>
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Then spotted these......</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVBcOe4rtIrpK5enaV_ral5Onb1KnIL61BX7SxlFrbPsBMBGm8u_PJ_YM9QE8p36R19ANuyBgQHUzdWrDcAoNXtThANKaLPotV-sxd4MrjWisIES-x4zKmKxrQr2ToU7QH8n-aV8FAxPI/s1600/ash-bowie-black.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVBcOe4rtIrpK5enaV_ral5Onb1KnIL61BX7SxlFrbPsBMBGm8u_PJ_YM9QE8p36R19ANuyBgQHUzdWrDcAoNXtThANKaLPotV-sxd4MrjWisIES-x4zKmKxrQr2ToU7QH8n-aV8FAxPI/s1600/ash-bowie-black.jpg" height="320" width="215" /></a></div>
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<i>Item</i>: <a href="http://www.my-wardrobe.com/ash/bowie-black-suede-lace-up-wedge-trainer-994730" target="_blank">Ash Bowie black. </a> £169 My Wardrobe</div>
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<i>Quandry</i>: Love the dark soles. Wish could buy navy version with navy - or black - soles. </div>
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(Could I take a marker pen to the Beas above? )</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Then oh glee of glee, I found some higher glittery ones on the Russell & Bromley website. These my magpie like brain really does like. But the cost is WAY too much for what they are, I think. I mean, really - almost £300? Might as well go the whole hog & get Saint Laurent or something.)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0t6PiMmk9OOA_yTYGRENpJU92IbwNeZlT9AURkJ5C9m8j-wqRDp6-5gFhT9xXL-PhUmzagkDmJVzL4slS6kztT5B2jjYaKDgXFqzD16eiZtBzG9VCCLr-XkuCS-5TRw8Ti7IYCNiONNg/s1600/rb-hi-sneaker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0t6PiMmk9OOA_yTYGRENpJU92IbwNeZlT9AURkJ5C9m8j-wqRDp6-5gFhT9xXL-PhUmzagkDmJVzL4slS6kztT5B2jjYaKDgXFqzD16eiZtBzG9VCCLr-XkuCS-5TRw8Ti7IYCNiONNg/s1600/rb-hi-sneaker.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Item</i>: <a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/all-that-glitters/boy-wonder/invt/104701" target="_blank">Russell & Bromley Stuart Weitzman 'Boy Wonder' sneakers £265.</a></div>
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<i>Dilemma</i>: just don't feel they are worth it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2sHDEYisvaqETynd0cxzBLSuHLZV1v-kNZJ4THUxZH4We-xaf_cqyZentuzBHCE8CE8kzuHPgo488bSC_qKRr7N3W_aU596gfTT2AVY08Q4Vv7JI_NGKp2JdHxt6WHZUXgmWUNuQPxw4/s1600/ash-bea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2sHDEYisvaqETynd0cxzBLSuHLZV1v-kNZJ4THUxZH4We-xaf_cqyZentuzBHCE8CE8kzuHPgo488bSC_qKRr7N3W_aU596gfTT2AVY08Q4Vv7JI_NGKp2JdHxt6WHZUXgmWUNuQPxw4/s1600/ash-bea.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Item</i>: <a href="http://www.atterleyroad.com/bea-shoe-1.html" target="_blank">Back to Ash Bea - burgundy and gold from Atterley Road</a>. £179. Scratching the 'shiny' itch again.</div>
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<i>Dilemma</i>: have reached saturation point and can no longer form coherent opinion on any type of sneaker.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfFQ0qGkjt7Yu-NEBB7XwFuG5GHdC9IM7zJjfkoTE-ZcVV6SpeT9zCyuNTqymbog2UIKz8QmRrZdGRkwzYuXiX2DBmIQvjCOlQQi0WNAp90M_1CRCNCIods37qTX5nZao5R3qvge7j6U/s1600/nike-lunar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfFQ0qGkjt7Yu-NEBB7XwFuG5GHdC9IM7zJjfkoTE-ZcVV6SpeT9zCyuNTqymbog2UIKz8QmRrZdGRkwzYuXiX2DBmIQvjCOlQQi0WNAp90M_1CRCNCIods37qTX5nZao5R3qvge7j6U/s1600/nike-lunar.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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<i>Item</i>: <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/448839" target="_blank">Nike Lunar Elite Sky Hi - Net a Porter £115</a></div>
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<i>Dilemma</i>: as above</div>
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Finally a 'non sneaker' to finish off the high brigade:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWttTWIq506pH1BuzCYmKaMMTPbDPullk0jzc6r_gBFLBKfqcrrZ-WNKR4pATJMR9foOb7YMfoY1Lx1kIeNcB_2Lz_rC38zFxhFDaqMXldBZzuOzalWrtuaTvvoEujUvhyphenhyphenCH2GIW2Rwtw/s1600/rb-manned.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWttTWIq506pH1BuzCYmKaMMTPbDPullk0jzc6r_gBFLBKfqcrrZ-WNKR4pATJMR9foOb7YMfoY1Lx1kIeNcB_2Lz_rC38zFxhFDaqMXldBZzuOzalWrtuaTvvoEujUvhyphenhyphenCH2GIW2Rwtw/s1600/rb-manned.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/loafers-lace-ups/manned/invt/235521" target="_blank">Russell & Bromley Style name 'Manned' (Stuart Weitzman)</a> - £245 (again - 'too much' I say...)</div>
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Well I guess (assuming you are still here) that after reading that lot you are probably as befuddled as me. </div>
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<u>Final thought:</u> If you fail with shoes, look at handbags. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wzzjCrXJ4U8XdGrD4QM9DC7rTe8jigQKFGbidoX4mXH6yfEENLPI6QLrWTwp5fiPZ3ETpgcqwaB0EQ8ZXoWYq2qC1HeJ24CbGPrBzed2TLXc7-meuNkGWyzb6Fj3NB7JDqZ2MLk9ekE/s1600/ah-valerie-blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wzzjCrXJ4U8XdGrD4QM9DC7rTe8jigQKFGbidoX4mXH6yfEENLPI6QLrWTwp5fiPZ3ETpgcqwaB0EQ8ZXoWYq2qC1HeJ24CbGPrBzed2TLXc7-meuNkGWyzb6Fj3NB7JDqZ2MLk9ekE/s1600/ah-valerie-blue.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/product/448682" target="_blank">The Outnet - Anya Hindmarch Valerie Glitter clutch in navy - £175</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFAWi0JtISnsTxY0ILaIbP9HaAKJGfNU6pMZ4VA_FEtWVczQom4cwLkHFKb3sxbKvLklb5F1TEkB1V-Ocbe5xvQOCUZA2aCvYUdYSteQw8phfg9Vtcdco30EAnYCbSNADCyMsDhHTM0Q/s1600/ah-roslyn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFAWi0JtISnsTxY0ILaIbP9HaAKJGfNU6pMZ4VA_FEtWVczQom4cwLkHFKb3sxbKvLklb5F1TEkB1V-Ocbe5xvQOCUZA2aCvYUdYSteQw8phfg9Vtcdco30EAnYCbSNADCyMsDhHTM0Q/s1600/ah-roslyn.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/product/448669" target="_blank">Anya Hindmarch Roslyn navy leather clutch £197</a> (The Outnet)</div>
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Any advice on sneakers gratefully received!</div>
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The answer, I'm sure, is not to go to TK Maxx and buy some bizarre 'Guess' brown canvass logo'd ones, which is of course what I did. I tried to upload a photo. iPhoto crashed. It has taste clearly. Probably no bad thing except that I have deprived you of a howl of laughter!</div>
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Oh - and having made Russell & Bromley today with a few minutes to spare (my usual style of shopping - so relaxing - NOT) I discovered they were closed due to a fire. Although the door was open, jeans clad assistants barred the way and men were inside hurling sand around the still immaculate pastel and coral loafer and tote displays. An odd kid of fire. But mine is not to reason why.</div>
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ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-38490052460676130882014-01-24T12:58:00.002+00:002014-01-26T09:07:37.544+00:00Well of course a random flowery dress was just what I needed!So many people seem to be shopping sensibly at the moment. I appluad them, I really do.<br />
I don't know what's wrong with me and shopping. I've tried sensible. I've tried 'buy everything'. Neither works for me.<br />
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The approach I am using at the moment is 'see, try on, replace, wait 24 hours and then buy'. Or rather 'see, try on, replace, wait 24 hours and mad scramble with much iffy driving and cursing of learners and red lights - to make the shop after work with about 10 seconds to spare before it closes. <br />
What for? The soundest of reason: to buy a dress I didn't know I needed of course. <br />
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That is, I didn't know I needed it until it occured to me that the orange colour would be just right with my pumpkin Bayswater bag (very old factory shop bargain) which I don't wear as much as I should. And it looked quite nice on. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsYa70BsJeXUVq7NfoH_zNAJL9GbP-kyZ8SIKK37VGPircVAqt-D_lqBEvdWAO8jr4jNci4esYXY_kJ5NrJX6qvzeOpgwBqjObNOi-ShU96YV4settNrHyvbP3wi14GKYvighR8KASmI8/s1600/dress.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsYa70BsJeXUVq7NfoH_zNAJL9GbP-kyZ8SIKK37VGPircVAqt-D_lqBEvdWAO8jr4jNci4esYXY_kJ5NrJX6qvzeOpgwBqjObNOi-ShU96YV4settNrHyvbP3wi14GKYvighR8KASmI8/s1600/dress.png" height="320" width="196" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://uk.monsoon.co.uk/view/product/uk_catalog/mon_11,mon_11.1/2532200806" target="_blank">Monsoon Rowena Rose 'wrap' dress (mock wrap) - £28 in sale</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I am puzzled on reflection as to why it is only reduced to £28 (from £55) when the sign said 70% off - even with my dubious mathematical skills that doesn't quite add up - but such was my dizzy excitement at having beat the clock I didn't register this until later.<br />
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Other random purchases have been made this month - to follow in tomorrow's post. A White Company sweater and a jacket I didn't want but 6 year old begged me to keep. Bet you all can't wait!<br />
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-12203012363657497972014-01-01T22:00:00.001+00:002014-01-01T22:03:58.407+00:00Now, where was I?I've been meaning to get my blog together again and the first day (well night, now) of 2014 seems as good and tidy a time as any.<br />
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I have no real resolutions other than to keep running! Back in September I started running. I am now totally in love with it. I now run 4k most days. And I've started using the gym, but I much prefer running outdoors. You know all that codswallop you get told about exercise - endorphins, mood lifting etc etc...? It's actually true. I am so cynical I never usually believe advice, or that something so simple can be so powerful. But it's done me no end of good - it lifts my mood and (oddly?) my skin has improved.<br />
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As to other resolutions, I debated whether to stop buying stuff. But that was never likely to go well. (Although it has reigned me in somewhat and stopped at least 2 tat-fests in the last few days.)<br />
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So far since Christmas I've bought 2 children's bed sets in Next; a discounted cushion and <a href="http://uk.monsoon.co.uk/view/product/uk_catalog/mon_27,mon_27.1/4330505552" target="_blank">this dress from Monsoon</a> - which is 50% off - now £29.50. <br />
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Next and Monsoon - I haven't been shopping anywhere uber-exciting, clearly. Just having to make do with the provincial offerings for the moment. I've been out of love with Monsoon for a while but tried this on after it - and the price - caught my eye, and decided it would go nicely with my new bag...see below.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://uk.monsoon.co.uk/view/product/uk_catalog/mon_27,mon_27.1/4330505552" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIH9DxEO7EDnaxOKVQe3_3XKu2I7sa0OeYU3e9QwGRKa7VGLZku73jYn8MJ5yg1q91VdznylJWck48k81vXJHxmu0-f2akNSxSWQtpJdXc2osCM5JN9byq28tpntyn_8KlQY6nw4bHetw/s1600/monsoon-karina-dress.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://uk.monsoon.co.uk/view/product/uk_catalog/mon_27,mon_27.1/4330505552" target="_blank">Monsoon Karina Dress - now £29.50</a></td></tr>
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My new bag was a Christmas gift (in which I had some input....) I don't normally go for burgundy, but the black just looked so dull. Hopefully I won't regret the colour choice. (Clearly not so far - as it's providing inspiration to buy more rose hued stuff!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/gb/en/product/378822?cm_mmc=ProductSearch-_-gb-_-Tote_Bags-_-Dorset&gclid=CPzgutH83bsCFeLHtAodph8AHA" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4hfwfqBt6t-S9TVW9QPUwbyrbMSI-fwCU_rnMrVYSI1NXzjULTOuRfND_z7gcRVuPTxTH-9EsRIiuaddfBf2uy31T7cpvewGgWD6wVdvzf9X9HQvUKvkPNylw7j3vtZLl7waapRx6rW0/s1600/mulberry-dorset.jpg" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/gb/en/product/378822?cm_mmc=ProductSearch-_-gb-_-Tote_Bags-_-Dorset&gclid=CPzgutH83bsCFeLHtAodph8AHA" target="_blank">Mulberry Dorset Tote</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Happy New Year everyone :-)<br />
<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-16352321011768400332013-09-30T17:09:00.003+01:002013-09-30T18:13:53.225+01:00Perfect red lipstick and a Whistles savingI've long tried to perfect the classic red lip look. Frustratingly, without much success. The simple things are often so hard to get right, but wow - when you do get them right how good it feels!<br />
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In the past my red lips have been either too orange, too purple, too pink... you know the story. <br />
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However, on impulse today I bought this and am so glad I did. It just brightens up my face and does not have the dreaded 'tooth yellowing' effect that some reads do on me.<br />
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<a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Rimmel-Kate-Matte-Lipstick_1281356/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizrA0hfJLsfEtymvoI-wcHOMzbAuCEJz5YBiWqxalIeSD3svpN5YScMSELD7Tgk95q9J1OHkvOe3p4P_sqN12LgZ0Xeq8ZM76KwXZb6CxNwgZbITUjT4Uzm8xP8BpmaFfeo9m0x3BnwGo/s320/rimmel-111.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's from <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Rimmel-Kate-Matte-Lipstick_1281356/" target="_blank">Rimmel by Kate Moss - shade 111 - 'Kiss of Life'</a> (what a lovely name incidentally!) And only £5.49.<br />
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If you are striving to perfect the perfect red lip and have similar colouring to me, give this a go. Boots have a 'buy one, get 2nd half price offer' on as well at the moment (on all cosmetics).<br />
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Wardrobe wise, not much to report alas. I find it an awkward time of year still - not always cool enough to crack open the autumn / winter wear in earnest. You start off comfortably cocooned in the morning mist and by mid-day are red faced and sweltering in a fug of cashmere - not quite the look I'm aiming for.<br />
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The tube skirt is still doing double duty and - thanks to a Whistles 25% code - is shortly to be joined by its sister the <a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-skirts?resetFilters=true#product=903000060576" target="_blank">longer version - see here</a>. Fulfilling my mantra of if it works get 2 (sort of).<br />
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Code is WH25AW13 if anyone else is pondering a purchase from Whistles (free delivery too) - expires 7 October so be quick :-)<br />
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<a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-skirts?resetFilters=true#product=903000060576" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlnW-5jn3M5ckDZ-vUKjHLOF0RM9dkChxeDiWgWqJfUpxQuIbwUBtgkJB7QN1hVcS9G1lwjm47lJ37V-xFY0oKNbi14gIV9hlKXwXJ1FBkTYd-O0CrBwWnnHs7qX56zOQLtN2NctY64cg/s400/longer-tube-skirt.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-504562460412086022013-09-13T18:46:00.000+01:002013-09-13T18:47:26.819+01:00The tube skirt rides againA brief post today - just of the 'what I wore' variety.<br />
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My <a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-skirts?resetFilters=true#product=903000060235" target="_blank">Whistles black jersey tube</a> skirt is proving to be a good buy. I have adapted my summer '10 item wardrobe' slightly (have neither the time nor the energy to do a full conversion for autumn at the moment!) simply by adding opaque tights and different shoes/ boots.<br />
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I was unsure whether the white jacket would work on a dull day - but think it did.<br />
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Today's outfit:<br />
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<i>Jacket - Tesco</i></div>
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<i>Skirt - <a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/whistles-jersey-tube-skirt/p447426?colour=Black" target="_blank">Whistles Jersey tube skirt - £45</a></i></div>
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<i>Shoes - <a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/loafers-lace-ups/chester/invt/121319" target="_blank">Black patent Chester loafers - Russell & Bromley</a> (had these for a couple of years and still going strong - have really been worth the investment)</i></div>
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<i>Tights - <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Denier-Velvet-Opaque-Tights/dp/B003UQ5OA2?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_2&nodeId=341278031&sr=1-2&qid=1379094110&pf_rd_r=0D7A56RJS9HS8A7N2JTD&pf_rd_m=A2BO0OYVBKIQJM&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_i=0&pf_rd_p=321381407&pf_rd_s=center-3" target="_blank">M&S Autograph velvet touch opaque</a> (great alternative to Wolford and Falke and the pricier brands)</i></div>
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<i>Top - H&M short sleeved breton</i></div>
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<i>Scarf - White Company (last year) - <a href="http://www.thewhitecompany.com/clothing/scarves-and-accessories/dotty-wool-scarf--stone/" target="_blank">similar here</a></i></div>
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-26811708547558252692013-09-11T21:36:00.001+01:002013-09-11T21:41:47.693+01:00Autumn againToday I felt a bit like 'me' again.<br />
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Looking in the mirror reminded me of <a href="http://ruralmumstyle.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/several-shades-of-navy.html" target="_blank">another post / outfit</a>, almost a year ago, which makes me smile every time I look at it, as it was a good day. I felt happy and peaceful. I won't go into detail, people may be reading this who know me (scary thought!) and I'm not ready to bare my soul to the world.<br />
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But I was happy. Then I was sad. Then I got on with life.<br />
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And life has come full circle. Sometimes, I find I can only come to terms with emotional changes after the four seasons have passed. Then I can start again.<br />
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You can't help your feelings though, sigh. If only you could go: 'oh it's OK! I'll pretend I am happy and I then I can feel like I did before!' Pah. My brain has served me well, but sadly it has not yet learnt how to manufacture feelings. Ah well, a bit deep for a fashion blog.<br />
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I was still happy-ish today as I felt that this was my first 'autumn outfit day'. I love autumn. Although some find it a sad season, with the dying foliage and darker days approaching, I prefer to see it as a hibernation. A rest. Time out to let life mature, renew and enrich. A preparation for better things to come. Oh tripe. Let's move swiftly onto clothes....<br />
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I wore:</div>
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<ul>
<li><i>White Company navy biker style jacket</i></li>
<li><i>Black Zara trousers with zip detail - summer sale this year</i></li>
<li><i>Zara breton t shirt</i></li>
<li><i>White Company star print scarf (Winter 2012) - <a href="http://www.thewhitecompany.com/clothing/scarves-and-accessories/dotty-wool-scarf--stone/" target="_blank">similar here</a></i></li>
<li><i><a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/modalu-pippa-small-grab-handbag/p361613?colour=Chocolate" target="_blank">Modalu black grab bag</a> (stupendous ebay bargain. It had a broken handle, the repair of which I'd factored into my top bid. Then the lovely man in Timpson's did it for nothing!!)</i></li>
<li><i><a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?searchTerm=mighty&storeId=12556&productId=5934359&urlRequestType=Base&categoryId=&langId=-1&productIdentifier=product&catalogId=33057" target="_blank">Tan Topshop 'Mighty' ankle boots</a> - at £45 and leather these are a great buy - mine still look as good as new from last year. Really comfortable too.</i></li>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/mighty-tan-leather-zip-boots-52404?resultCount=1&searchTerm=42Y08CTAN&geoip=home&parent_category_rn=&viewAllFlag=&bi=0" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix4_4qLhc2Ros0sCJ-8ym49pMWwN_4dOCPlWVxPIF9o223WxR2lBVFCZa_kI6jMB0xOXTO05qubtP8I3Nd9JoZVbnJWrcs-g5dQzVUp7zA-t-tB6f4JYe5dQ-RQntMEf1HbWvfyz8nzVA/s320/tan-mighty-boot.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/mighty-tan-leather-zip-boots-52404?resultCount=1&searchTerm=42Y08CTAN&geoip=home&parent_category_rn=&viewAllFlag=&bi=0" target="_blank">Topshop 'Mighty' ankle boot in tan leather. Also available in black - £45 </a></td></tr>
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ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-53911053050656619272013-09-11T06:34:00.000+01:002013-09-11T06:34:00.544+01:00More navyThis is what I wore yesterday.<br />
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I may be nearing the end of my 10 item experiment. I am itching to incorporate other clothes. And the seasons are changing, I need to adjust things slightly.<br />
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It has proved a useful discipline though. <br />
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Lesson learnt? I love stripes. And who would have thought a bargain basement skirt from my most hated and reviled of all retailers (Tesco) could become a mainstay?!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWJ_yW_2FeA8cHS6oYDPPMCte8D15K55r3ljUiLBU27Gf9plMg3zVuyazVJrd0uZpKo70LrpKX-n0_sH3Phpz3J4v0c_oBRrmsSZDROqhmoVk_had9A228N23ZvbWWWs3iBheZ6XVCCc/s1600/Image+24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWJ_yW_2FeA8cHS6oYDPPMCte8D15K55r3ljUiLBU27Gf9plMg3zVuyazVJrd0uZpKo70LrpKX-n0_sH3Phpz3J4v0c_oBRrmsSZDROqhmoVk_had9A228N23ZvbWWWs3iBheZ6XVCCc/s400/Image+24.jpg" width="196" /></a></div>
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Breton top - <a href="http://www.zara.com/uk/en/woman/t-shirts/organic-cotton-t-shirt-c269189p1451523.html" target="_blank">Zara</a></div>
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Skirt - Tesco</div>
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Sandals - <a href="http://www.lkbennett.com/shoes/sandals/SFMILOS416LEATHER?source=78888&awc=2246_1378842789_42dac17d12e9167caa46223ef494eb9c" target="_blank">LK Bennett 'Milos' T bar wedges </a> (now in sale)</div>
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-32959624594274860812013-09-10T18:23:00.004+01:002013-09-10T18:30:04.065+01:00Workout clothes. Is it vain to care?It's that time of the year again. I call it 'fighting with knives' time. A fitness / safety training event I attend.<br />
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The 'knives' don't bother me unduly (they are thankfully not real!) I am reasonably competent at de-knifing, and even rather enjoy it. Or I did last year when I somehow managed to de-knife a big confident muscly guy (who thought he was going to mince me up) 5 times in a row :-) <br />
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But oh 'woe is me', due to time-tabling issues, this year I have to train for 2 days with fitter people and have a running test.<br />
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To lift my spirits (and my performance naturally) I have been thinking about investing in some more work-out gear (a) to train in before hand so that I have a outside chance of passing, and (b) to wear to the occasion. And maybe, just maybe if I get some purpose built proper stuff, it would encourage me to train regularly rather than have this ad hoc panic...?<br />
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To this end I have been perusing the Sweaty Betty website.<br />
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<a href="http://www.sweatybetty.com/racer-workout-pants-prodcw0152_black/" target="_blank">Racer workout pants - £45</a></div>
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I like the deep waistband, some of these training clothes otherwise have minimal holding-innage.</div>
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<a href="http://www.sweatybetty.com/racer-workout-pants-prodcw0152_black/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqKEFIHAnJCfmyAzhElogLkC2KiJj3Y3aHMWP7gUzKKlKL46-wKYLWJQjmGsPA1SwQy9jCByLHIj1f72aFspShynv9JcQNFElfzmcIEryulnZI-y3WsOkMbTlwJB2jEJwyDgWornczfkw/s320/sweaty-betty-racer-pants.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sweatybetty.com/seamless-competition-workout-jacket-prodsb514_black/" target="_blank">Ruched workout jacket - £65 </a>(ouch!)</div>
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Like the draping in this though. So many workout clothes naturally assume that you want to parade in skin tight lycra.</div>
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<a href="http://www.sweatybetty.com/seamless-competition-workout-jacket-prodsb514_black/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmdMacSFbS5oUTNQTYtWVuqHdA5YOeBEgrD9N5Y4DPTBpmSkbJ0PhGz_MDPio5Lwl5ivdF8jBqYZlu4cPqWhAfQPK-qulAszodtevA3bRzFrtDDIeNoIc_8o4T0jA68o3MDGc6DcrVbXI/s320/sw-bet-jacket.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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Finally a <a href="http://www.sweatybetty.com/reflect-yoga-tee-prodsb135_moonlightmarl/" target="_blank">tee shirt</a> - I need to invest in a proper workout top, others are terribly hot and sweaty and uncomfortable and ridey-uppy.</div>
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<a href="http://www.sweatybetty.com/reflect-yoga-tee-prodsb135_moonlightmarl/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWNYRjCTYaIxhIsfb8P3Qx64wxHImPPanAQPMX1cOIf2ecIpEWh1d750Unp6-AYbuEqUbt7weeyRkzBL_C1Bch7WiOEbvtMO_GSpjWTpJwaxq1oonbQ-chUZR5AXplDklXi9wgZaknmrY/s320/sw-betty-tee.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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And to complete the set - I really like these <a href="http://www.sweatybetty.com/bloch-criss-cross-sneakers-prods0524l_black/" target="_blank">Bloch 'criss cross sneakers'</a>. Not suitable for heavy duty running. But for indoor work of the nature I have in mind, they are a good price at £38.</div>
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<a href="http://www.sweatybetty.com/bloch-criss-cross-sneakers-prods0524l_black/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSN3TcQSDP375mKj15gCr5k0vJS07WMnUBjtyK7W6lHHBCqio3OkP3KHGUmbu7X5zFfdoBYNBnDIXF3WYhkA5T94JjAAYD2AsCBd9NU5FyfH6kH3dn9m2O5_R0deMrHDSQjlJu400LgQ/s320/criss-cross-bloch.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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Now I just need to decide if I care enough to invest good 'normal clothing' money in this sort of thing!</div>
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-41591271969981514182013-09-10T12:39:00.000+01:002013-09-10T17:48:25.344+01:00Pleats please. A last look at the sales...Thinking about my failure with the £125 polyester Jigsaw skirt I tried on the other day...I still have a slight hankering after a pleated skirt. Just preferably one that is a bit more substantial and / or less costly - i.e. better value all round.<br />
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An online hunt has turned up the following:<br />
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<a href="http://www.jigsaw-online.com/products/shell-tailoring-pleated-skirt-6522" target="_blank">Jigsaw shell pleated skirt - £44 - now that's more like it!</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.jigsaw-online.com/products/shell-tailoring-pleated-skirt-6522" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTvQ-nXthWGg2lLw6tlUE5J9e0Gr4x8UwltgnOhnIdfvtVWw4HPM9qGEd4qLeTcGhnaP9Ygw01U-uFJCdCkZH9PWrexw5GLbZnLNhQ0lwfqRethM5TGAkRFpMNP44eqVZASbkqLqu524/s320/jigsaw-shell-pleated-sk.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/l-k-bennett-sunray-pleated-skirt-black/p355595" target="_blank">LK Bennett - in sale but still £75</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/l-k-bennett-sunray-pleated-skirt-black/p355595" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGap2sSXp0xQRpHO-nfNHynOcOSIUZopS2q1jm3XxSSsR3sn46V1-EvPVm0N_mHghjGZ9ukS12mHlndP9Qda1VS-VMoCO1cVHYOTWaGolCguDBCXRGIwiu_Yr2J8rfElpi01gOObmERwE/s320/lkb-pleat-sk.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.lkbennett.com/clothing/skirts/SKSILVER416POLYESTER" target="_blank">LK Bennett - hmmm still polyester but the print would work with my navy stuff - and a better price at £40... (also comes in red)</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.lkbennett.com/clothing/skirts/SKSILVER416POLYESTER" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbaB6Zg1f_vO9n0WjLI372YT_l_QuGL0KspYEFDPDqw7kmYcgg51sETLHQhTpbiHQo5l8Qssoxqy1YNe31XQX4jO7J50fXY64iTzBqMrcxSbv7NrMc7eif04-uAZS-_UA4POODEjYUJEQ/s320/lkb-navy-print-pleat-sk.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.purecollection.com/.Knitted-Full-Skirt_LK-G35.htm" target="_blank">Not sale alas - cashmere blend from Pure Collection - could be better for winter wear</a> </div>
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- and code TAC111 gives 25% off all from Pure Collection :-)</div>
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<a href="http://www.purecollection.com/.Knitted-Full-Skirt_LK-G35.htm" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAjaW3BCszS7FDd3LCi6mcSgrlkSxm2fejZfmllNaF4Y1jea7D39UF0-0oNJ5K8AmWwp8HoUk5AhbIheqDsGqkDPiwHJOJ5R8asgCtBMZO8XLGXzAdRtLshf3_ESdCT55Oe4TonBZWvRA/s320/purecoll-pleat-sk.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Pleated-Midi-Skirt/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2953389&SearchQuery=pleated%20skirt&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black" target="_blank">Asos pleated Midi Skirt - non sale - £36</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Pleated-Midi-Skirt/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2953389&SearchQuery=pleated%20skirt&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDJdWK7XEZqdzy_tA2FnkA20oKMgsIioXjkLH_a8noac6rtVIAAWy8rXXQmpOC_2cAodXnSSbl7qUvswzQSVrhMwxbMZDNj51jxfkkHDxZ4WdnesHiS0RLlwyNY0wqCwydzZZCgz7MIQ/s320/asos-pleat-sk.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.asos.com/River-Island/River-Island-Pleated-Maxi-Skirt/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3039571&SearchQuery=pleated%20skirt&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Greymarl" target="_blank">River Island Grey Pleated Maxi Skirt - reduced to £24.50</a> </div>
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Bit undecided about the grey though (too light?) and somehow looks very maxi, i.e. might be too long on me</div>
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<a href="http://www.asos.com/River-Island/River-Island-Pleated-Maxi-Skirt/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3039571&SearchQuery=pleated%20skirt&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Greymarl" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzeBxnAiiuV_OUuSV1d5K7R0P7Af0sSCakPwNY8GphifS69lD2Gk9C0-Z3naNSKl0KRq9sNQD2CrGalb67k3diLDcXi5kWcp-f79yfN_KXp0xG9UzEtSp0j1R50d1AtR_eBemAJi0K_6w/s320/river-island-grey-pleat-maxi.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Pleated-Maxi/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2892640&SearchQuery=pleated%20skirt&sh=0&pge=2&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black" target="_blank">Asos bargain black pleated maxi skirt - but says 'chiffon' - possibly too sheer? Reduced to £19</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Pleated-Maxi/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2892640&SearchQuery=pleated%20skirt&sh=0&pge=2&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQOZXvIKg-Yal1ja2tgrkHAsrInq0Q93pZomaG-qXyqygBS4QSJTtnhAfooKTk49cKAsvJ_Qowh8yhH_d7E2dWFpFI31T7wqLA5uct6ShVA-K4ZNozn_wRJP_Q7adB-QMXmO8uG4RJX4/s320/asos-black-pleat-maxi.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
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Finally, not black - but love the design - (and Kate Middleton was spotted wearing this print in a dress - so would be in good company, amazed it hasn't sold out!) Utter bargain now for just £17.</div>
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Great Plains Cezanne Paintbox Pleated Skirt - £17.70</div>
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<a href="http://www.greatplains.co.uk/product/Woman+Sale+Skirts+And+Shorts/J3AL8/Cezanne+Paintbox+Pleated+Skirt.htm" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOWPtRZCYBkqXEN89Dw7Puzjee9oaYK4voW3u-vABrDj_5XECCWB2rW-J3M85_gcnT2TOhY8TA6ifl2XPdx_LzGJMnR631eiPMZJ9U_-03WdcfxjP-d7zcZZ6azBFD37aaJWpa7pV49k/s320/greatplainsCezanne-Paintbox-Pleated-Skirt.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.greatplains.co.uk/product/Woman+Sale+Skirts+And+Shorts/J3AL8/Cezanne+Paintbox+Pleated+Skirt.htm" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSsIzS29CElNCrHfmh7douOaJhzHkD3hl8tdZvFzg950vt34B19o9ByAQ6d9ivlbbAqDOKWPc3xbM_JJEey44a_PD7brmv1hzFMoCHmuH_zzljrMMFbiXWubmDy8w3h9G7Ro1dX9fW3w/s320/great-plains-skirt-back.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Out of that little lot, I am sorely tempted to try the first (Jigsaw £40) and the last (Great Plains £17) - as they offer really good reductions - AND I'd have a black pleated skirt and a colourful one - both for less than the cost of the original new season Jigsaw offering. That has to be a bargain in anyone's book! </div>
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I also really like the non reduced Asos midi. Hmmm. Decisions, decisions... </div>
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Watch this space... :-)</div>
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-84163743274992031622013-09-09T17:38:00.005+01:002013-09-09T17:53:17.870+01:00Comfort dressing...or 'shopping on a fat day' Comfort dressing. Oh dear me, when you dress for comfort, is it time to abandon all hope? I felt today that my boyfriend jeans, which I thought I'd grown to love, were really not suiting me. Maybe the changing room light was unflattering. Maybe I'm just having a 'fat' day.<br />
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Whatever. Today I don't think they looked so good. I am not ready for elasticated slacks just yet. Now I am not exactly putting 'boyfriend jeans' into that category, but it made me think about why I wear stuff.<br />
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Put it this way, after an encounter with said changing room mirror, I came home and changed into a 'skinny' style. And incidentally how odd that when you are far from skinny, that such a style should seem to flatter more than a looser cut?!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMNt9-Y7iJcwNQOFWi3ed_Bxtx1jlnHixZi9gMfXuZS4Auae9TqwuplGlNnCdXe4YO1sWE29ynhnLcR6-K6h8yKHnSChxJd-BiMF2QRgdop92Wa_WitZMXxPh1zA-0P8bg9NQ886aAWIY/s1600/Image+21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMNt9-Y7iJcwNQOFWi3ed_Bxtx1jlnHixZi9gMfXuZS4Auae9TqwuplGlNnCdXe4YO1sWE29ynhnLcR6-K6h8yKHnSChxJd-BiMF2QRgdop92Wa_WitZMXxPh1zA-0P8bg9NQ886aAWIY/s320/Image+21.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>At the start of the day...</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8a1GqKy8FcTr3qF38DIuTSoPqbgNQe1dyXaaTljQNn0bpbFNwaSq-7yRorJw16iT2VcZTSuN0vxi12VUeRCueHv6P9capg7DmL-ADkEiHr8Eooa1T3DHqssbDH_uxlioqNdbqeelOpO4/s1600/Image+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8a1GqKy8FcTr3qF38DIuTSoPqbgNQe1dyXaaTljQNn0bpbFNwaSq-7yRorJw16iT2VcZTSuN0vxi12VUeRCueHv6P9capg7DmL-ADkEiHr8Eooa1T3DHqssbDH_uxlioqNdbqeelOpO4/s400/Image+4.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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<i>At the end of the day... Yeah drab I know - but matched my mood.</i></div>
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Now I mentioned changing rooms - and yes I did manage to do some shopping / browsing in peace today. First time in months - (now that school is back) - much needed, but I didn't enjoy as much as I thought I would as I had a vague sense of foreboding all day for some reason. Probably guilt that<b> I </b>was doing something I wanted to for a change :-/<br />
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Without further ado however - here are the pictures of what caught my eye:<br />
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<a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Suede-Pointed-Loafers-Insolia/dp/B00CQF5SK4?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_1&nodeId=210710031&sr=1-1&qid=1378743590&pf_rd_r=08AT2QJVS1F2TVFAHNB4&pf_rd_m=A2BO0OYVBKIQJM&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_i=0&pf_rd_p=321381407&pf_rd_s=center-3" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1bYATWQ-8pyUiJFJ74fBBOjyT5L6jJEPc8_KRVd09Ivl1-7XA629IQkCcPQlKh002xpUfsHHlVbpyYKbtCreVJpDISgpOI2IToC5gDS0lhFkrL1Py8ardT3k2n-PsJsBcsBS7q__HhU0/s320/Image+5.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Suede-Pointed-Loafers-Insolia/dp/B00CQF5SK4?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_1&nodeId=210710031&sr=1-1&qid=1378743590&pf_rd_r=08AT2QJVS1F2TVFAHNB4&pf_rd_m=A2BO0OYVBKIQJM&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_i=0&pf_rd_p=321381407&pf_rd_s=center-3" target="_blank">Pointy flats from M&S Autograph - £45</a> </i></div>
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<i>(Ooh 'as seen in Vogue' it says on their website, get me!)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYHWpyR-g-ufCihvWTb4ksPXBVYJHkSQdRLI3GKs7bdVg6_Q-kMvqGIzfNFQ5chSgXVeQ-QnGw6SDlaPduFRo8GdVuUrlgLrf_R2rJAIIQTEB8ciZfw9WKKqxGvaS4t8CWifk_i5avMs/s1600/Image+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYHWpyR-g-ufCihvWTb4ksPXBVYJHkSQdRLI3GKs7bdVg6_Q-kMvqGIzfNFQ5chSgXVeQ-QnGw6SDlaPduFRo8GdVuUrlgLrf_R2rJAIIQTEB8ciZfw9WKKqxGvaS4t8CWifk_i5avMs/s320/Image+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Leather-Panelled-Resistant-Insolia/dp/B0036JB4BG?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_32&nodeId=210710031&sr=1-32&qid=1378743673" target="_blank">Left - Leather panelled water resistant pumps - £45</a></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Leather-Almond-Snakeskin-Print/dp/B00AY7XT6Q?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_4&nodeId=210710031&sr=1-4&qid=1378743590&pf_rd_r=08AT2QJVS1F2TVFAHNB4&pf_rd_m=A2BO0OYVBKIQJM&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_i=0&pf_rd_p=321381407&pf_rd_s=center-3" target="_blank">Right - leather faux snakeskin - £45</a></i></div>
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<a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Leather-Court-Shoes-Insolia%C2%AE/dp/B00DCIQCB8?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_8&nodeId=210710031&sr=1-8&qid=1378743715&pf_rd_r=1ZKQP7Z9MR60WD74FXGA&pf_rd_m=A2BO0OYVBKIQJM&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_i=0&pf_rd_p=321381407&pf_rd_s=center-3" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1yh1vliCGKmLxUMNQvJ0k15s65NGLMfFqxgr-3ggACzzlGRvIGWp9AAJD65JXohD9IcIooDFk4OT2NT2doUxjHzTZZ8xnsJE7sIEMxEKWvKEXKVRJTq_hITGCVzhCl4Ow7ClH27i4qY/s320/Image+7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Leather-Court-Shoes-Insolia%C2%AE/dp/B00DCIQCB8?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_8&nodeId=210710031&sr=1-8&qid=1378743715&pf_rd_r=1ZKQP7Z9MR60WD74FXGA&pf_rd_m=A2BO0OYVBKIQJM&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_i=0&pf_rd_p=321381407&pf_rd_s=center-3" target="_blank">Autograph leather mid heel courts - £45</a></i></div>
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<a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Suede-Resistant-Insolia%C2%AE-Stretch/dp/B00CQF4TJK?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_35&nodeId=210703031&sr=1-35&qid=1378742152" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOtDlZRlU9ddfC3ES0nlnlLnz-AJFvvizdWKHyou6J4uCrxMaUa-VmbN2OTv-9W-FDXFtsxaESvTpqyyB9G7LmT-WBctDf0BX-t7P1e0dm1ICNAbZpMoXD76ZaiRMOwN74-qbzJS4bnWA/s320/Image+8.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Suede-Resistant-Insolia%C2%AE-Stretch/dp/B00CQF4TJK?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_35&nodeId=210703031&sr=1-35&qid=1378742152" target="_blank">Autograph wedge suede boots - navy & black</a> £65 </i></div>
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<i>(description says 'wide fit', which I didn't notice in the shop - didn't look any different from normal)</i></div>
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<a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Collection-Lightweight-Chic-Print-Scarf/dp/B003W3NZ9A?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_34&nodeId=43190030&sr=1-34&qid=1378742277" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDty3PRRaRJ4kZd5Rkrnum9Cy6fQ0O0j3l2u5PaQ0X4AxZB2LtfXtH2JRl_ih-eYufLnqNE_K6b034pXeQfB6lrDlMdz0icBsVO58B2x2YSMdTEGIsP2oRqjJk3vOtcldfDhvpZ8HKjnc/s320/Image+9.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Collection-Lightweight-Chic-Print-Scarf/dp/B003W3NZ9A?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_34&nodeId=43190030&sr=1-34&qid=1378742277" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ZYV2115UFdk_JbfTGEkQ0YAUb-25vcvkunZi1TELa94ldzCXsiSTFd1474XDSE3nghWhVV5tPzBwpnZW1lrgxvqtrw9Zz8R-oUM2nZlbO02qinF0Y-UZxpZNM5tA56qITtfYnv2GSDk/s320/ms-star-print-scarf.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Collection-Lightweight-Chic-Print-Scarf/dp/B003W3NZ9A?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_34&nodeId=43190030&sr=1-34&qid=1378742277" target="_blank">M&S Star print scarves £15 - looked better in the flesh. I preferred the burgundy.</a> I apologise unreservedly for my photos - which it transpires, are even worse than M&S's. Nuff said. </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfAvJdMpnNS7XBQF_MF-e8CgNzxpP7PP-qeRfkJqhnotRhpLkJYl_ILfDjJVjHycSNsWjMHbaKiZ0_ccQWoWEHbFIYaPkYjCv9j1jfvRjpFdlUs10xETSvOru6N0iNhGX2ZYZr3m4jRhw/s1600/Image+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfAvJdMpnNS7XBQF_MF-e8CgNzxpP7PP-qeRfkJqhnotRhpLkJYl_ILfDjJVjHycSNsWjMHbaKiZ0_ccQWoWEHbFIYaPkYjCv9j1jfvRjpFdlUs10xETSvOru6N0iNhGX2ZYZr3m4jRhw/s320/Image+10.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>M&S jacket - combination of knit (sleeves) and wool felt (the rest) - can't seem to find on website.</i></div>
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Next, my quest for a replacement basic navy sweater continued (so far without success). I tried on 2 in GAP. Neither quite right.</div>
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<a href="http://www.gap.co.uk/browse/product.do?cid=89619&vid=1&pid=000495762005" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTyJXuj0G7MzDgL3o2Y-wFPTJnyMEN_wAtFUe348hnnbr-xOvCpwm1UNS7z6TxPdLI4RiQdVMURCZqIUQhd4Rqj3lkxjcvSNAOG0EZQRYT2KxYpVF3N8QU2y3K1quNegPbFSaUmJS38U/s320/Image+11.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.gap.co.uk/browse/product.do?cid=89619&vid=1&pid=000495762005" target="_blank">GAP fine merino sweater - £39.95</a>. Hmm. Just not quite right.</div>
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<a href="http://www.gap.co.uk/browse/product.do?cid=89619&vid=1&pid=000599273007" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZTSm0dgWvdH-Jysu8ACtxADQVfllIH2mhM_ipodjGeCGMr6S14KcVqHzVpopX6iRxGauZouTOUI9jauMo5LKAUT3uuCvPAna_MUhARseXj0COpP5oDqEs4kw_LVkC79U9yRtr2GSPOvo/s320/Image+12.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.gap.co.uk/browse/product.do?cid=89619&vid=1&pid=000599273007" target="_blank">GAP merino / nylon blend sweater - £19.95</a>. </div>
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The neck and shoulders felt better but I didn't want the looser shape and the side vents. If however, you are on the look out for something similar with a casual feel - this would be an excellent buy.</div>
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<a href="http://www.gap.co.uk/browse/product.do?cid=89619&vid=1&pid=000599273007" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgApddr6ZwRUu6sFpxtsSOJm5wKNAZ-qvSYYOoDS5mX8UWx_gT-9ZpSjZuJMnhwgFPsdZL5r_8BHO04h3KeIX6Pev2IltMEUbx61w9OKQFeaVLS-WrgR2LqMQAzLQWxpHeAKwrW9EhPuzw/s320/Image+13.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.gap.co.uk/browse/product.do?cid=89619&vid=1&pid=000599273007" target="_blank">GAP 'eversoft' v neck merino / nylon blend sweater - £19.95</a></div>
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Not a sweater - a 'hoody' top - but tried anyway while I was in the navy theme. If you're in the market for such an item it's nice. I wasn't. (But tried it anyway. As you do.)</div>
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<a href="http://www.gap.co.uk/browse/product.do?cid=89580&vid=1&pid=000604561000" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmiSEXR93cq9v2tTx-7vhulqAYuYK6y8_kLECFJqEMg4Yr-FcugeRGU3PSK9wkwjCl44XNxdy95NYXM0Ut5VpbBtdkyQk-_hXOmXn-CohdA-8pfnF2nCrk70k-K0jLBM_qQpXCtQ5Rj0/s320/Image+15.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.gap.co.uk/browse/product.do?cid=89580&vid=1&pid=000604561000" target="_blank">Gap funnel neck hoody - £29.95</a></div>
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<b>NB </b>Using code GAPSTYLE will give 15% off online at Gap. </div>
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Next I went to hunt out the Mint Velvet 'tabard' (yuk to the name) which I blogged about the other day. Turned out it was yuk by name and yuk by nature. A shame. Didn't feel right on me at all. The roll neck was clumsy and didn't sit well. This may of course be in a large part due to the fact that (a) I was feeling yukky and (b) my hair has been cut too short and is hugely annoying me. :-( </div>
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However, I may return to this later in the season when (a) my hair has grown and (b) with a bit of luck it might be in a sale. But for now, that's another 'itch scratched' and £69 saved. </div>
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<a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/mint-velvet-lurex-tabard-jumper-blue/p617126" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGsNytWpjGC2bl-JN-7cYxIIrG-ag7zscY4eAsTQ4I5JqMLo8WEahgANDS7gvWlaS1uobpcvyMnxBqZ_sPG1wV5mGdU7DauTXQ7r6807tKEafYD2MbnXVem0diC12ADxADCgSJXPG6yM/s320/Image+16.jpg" width="185" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/mint-velvet-lurex-tabard-jumper-blue/p617126" target="_blank">Mint Velvet 'lurex tabard' - £69</a></div>
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I took a few other things into the fitting room while I was at it. This <a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-knitwear?resetFilters=true#product=903000060652" target="_blank">beige knit from Whistles</a> was nice but I've left for now as I don't really need it, was unsure of the crew neck. And of course, ahem, I am trying hard to keep to my minimal wardrobe. (Like that would have figured at all if I decided I needed it!)</div>
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<a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-knitwear?resetFilters=true#product=903000060652" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBIZhNB_EDMQ6F8lhJvzFwPQiaNeER-uv59AUMT6agNkKc_zXmS2yWQXtJPcUhRl2ca-0TX3MSS01cfl3pXsbYsp1SPJSNXkUsAUw1THnvnZT5KfCbrNADGTtQQSarBdSssGsOWySyI8/s320/Image+17.jpg" width="204" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-knitwear?resetFilters=true#product=903000060652" target="_blank">Whistles 'Amelia' silk crew neck jumper - £65</a> </div>
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Crew necks are too 'boobtastic' for me I fear. </div>
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Classic colour and nice feel to it though.</div>
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<a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-jersey-tops?resetFilters=true#product=903000060363" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHGjuaQHt8xoUCSkwir6cx-pFWVaMVo34zvq0pmcuAcwsgWqzLxA_mD1pIVn29zpfINrKnDq7bIAp_liTOeklpKBqn6IKadbpnzmPNyMnTKJjVPaEufCzYy5Sab4PMp77rnLYmf-MGnBo/s320/Image+19.jpg" width="165" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-jersey-tops?resetFilters=true#product=903000060363" target="_blank">Faye seam back tee from Whistles - £35</a></div>
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Not shown on my pic or on website - but has nice mini slit detail at side seam. </div>
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Liked it for layering - lighter weight than a knit. May return to this...although on the pricy side for what it is... ('wrinkles nose' and sounds like mother).</div>
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<a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/mint-velvet-stripe-t-shirt-midnight-grey/p649133" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimH9dYhKEJmnBydlNS053PkihmfKdXrVZp2JfbSbnIq3jigUUWI0QOqy05BMagFACRhyphenhyphenIhgUMBxTWgMvFfKLIPr6nYXTisdXsizWsJApsjUYPO5yBQhNyo3EKH_KisJI4Of7Rh3k9gF8A/s320/Image+20.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/mint-velvet-stripe-t-shirt-midnight-grey/p649133" target="_blank">And finally.... the Mint Velvet stripe t shirt - 'midnight / grey' top - £39</a> </div>
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Tried. Liked. Purchased. :-)</div>
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If it feels ok on a 'fat' day - it's IN.</div>
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Last but not least, a quick dash to Tesco for their 'Shower shine' - which incidentally is the best on the market. Trust me, I have done extensive research. I now endure Tesco solely for this one item. Don't say I never tell you anything useful.</div>
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I had a quick recce in the clothing section hoping to see the <a href="http://www.clothingattesco.com/skirts/f+f-supersoft-denim-pencil-skirt/invt/jl320142/&bklist=icat,4,shop,catgwomens,womens-skirts" target="_blank">denim pencil skirt</a> I blogged about the other day. Didn't find it sadly, but did notice that they had this replica of a leather effect trim top which I bought in Zara last year - almost identical - right down to the brass coloured zip at the back - and for just £8! I didn't have time to stay and investigate any other Zara-like items... but interesting.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXWE6N8mZS7pBH23msm4G6xt4UPHxdfOyCZeWx7IB9y2vKwXJClykdkVauMWxTTE1jylMvPrSSTOYJS6Y57Lgnpp7j79nyFGCQvuPTal7z-ZWjr1QpwjwQ8DebEM8_th7bATqYJ_Uuj4/s1600/Image+22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXWE6N8mZS7pBH23msm4G6xt4UPHxdfOyCZeWx7IB9y2vKwXJClykdkVauMWxTTE1jylMvPrSSTOYJS6Y57Lgnpp7j79nyFGCQvuPTal7z-ZWjr1QpwjwQ8DebEM8_th7bATqYJ_Uuj4/s320/Image+22.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjkhKG3HDsV_HyjrlWgO7FhNTbf-6NynCsCC-sejWC6ENyKLp4lwHX3i_gfr_HSIuGMcutw7Rd-zYmh2OMpe4LDQ1gGdu8EFqCBgN1wVwVjUwFccBBGC153Mpe4Tfeq42aZ_cUQ-E_Vo/s1600/Image+23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjkhKG3HDsV_HyjrlWgO7FhNTbf-6NynCsCC-sejWC6ENyKLp4lwHX3i_gfr_HSIuGMcutw7Rd-zYmh2OMpe4LDQ1gGdu8EFqCBgN1wVwVjUwFccBBGC153Mpe4Tfeq42aZ_cUQ-E_Vo/s320/Image+23.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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Tesco Zara-a-like top - £8 (couldn't find on website yet) </div>
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*** Disclaimer ***<br />
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I did none of these items any favours today. If you click the links you will see how they are actually meant to look. But sometimes I think it's useful also to see how they look on a short tubby person having a bad day.<br />
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-10701485130630695002013-09-08T16:37:00.002+01:002013-09-08T18:12:54.022+01:00Black and NavyA controversial combination. Some people wouldn't wear black and navy blue together, but I have no such qualms. This due mainly, or wholly actually, because I don't yet (although probably need one) have a navy blue - or any other colour come to that - maxi dress in my life. So needs must - and I balanced it all out by letting another colour show in between.<br />
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I wore my Primark silver leaves necklace today in honour of the onset of autumn :-)<br />
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Shoes were my <a href="http://www.lkbennett.com/shoes/sandals/SFMILOS416LEATHER" target="_blank">LK Bennett Milos T bar wedges</a> - these are still in stock online - they have gone into the sale and are now greatly reduced. A classic shape I think.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIb_UG1obVnuechZXjeq1rwKNvqv4C57FDs5goCEj4zOMf9trTHXRQ0RnnqyGDEKexjnj6pQXnrklw0fUGzQYmGRUKw1VqFEMTh2aVTpSxUXQmxQevg4ho7JNoEYWPXNNlyrBqh1p1fA/s1600/Image+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIb_UG1obVnuechZXjeq1rwKNvqv4C57FDs5goCEj4zOMf9trTHXRQ0RnnqyGDEKexjnj6pQXnrklw0fUGzQYmGRUKw1VqFEMTh2aVTpSxUXQmxQevg4ho7JNoEYWPXNNlyrBqh1p1fA/s640/Image+2.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
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<i> Navy blue jersey biker jacket - from the <a href="http://www.thewhitecompany.com/clothing/knitwear/" target="_blank">White Company</a></i></div>
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<i>Black Maxi dress from Warehouse - <a href="http://www.asos.com/Vila/Vila-Vest-Maxi-Dress/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3180888&SearchQuery=black%20maxi%20dress&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black" target="_blank">similar here from Asos</a></i></div>
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<a href="http://www.lkbennett.com/shoes/sandals/SFMILOS416LEATHER" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBFJu4zs5xWkTl6aKdSWoMp3_kKj4SikGgywSVEdyatvUdO0p57Y1nkJBJIFcaim54mo5ZP5b7GIQ2QSMzvKbriwheC714QESI51gIEmjtXh4PX-IvtuHvjptpGdJmGNNMlBpw_xYONE/s320/milos-sandal-webpic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.lkbennett.com/shoes/sandals/SFMILOS416LEATHER" target="_blank"><i>Milos T bar sandal - LK Bennett sale</i></a></div>
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<i>Navy and black theme extending to navy sandals and black toes...</i></div>
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What is your opinion on navy and black together - do you think it can work?</div>
<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-63263423766273392013-09-07T18:20:00.000+01:002013-09-08T19:43:06.382+01:00Days of summerOdd, my feelings about summer. I suppose I look on it rather like one of those not-so-successful relationships - unpleasant to be endured but to be reminisced on with aspects of fondness.<br />
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Now that summer is dying, I look back through a kind of rose-tinted haze and think 'it wasn't so bad' and 'what a shame' and 'how nice it will be when summer is here again'. (Remind me of that come next July when I am perspiring madly and longing for autumn!)<br />
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I do love autumn though. It is my absolute favourite time of year. In my eyes you get all the pros of summer - bright, balmy, sunny days (we hope!) without any of the cons (sweaty, stuffy, humid, silly).<br />
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And added to that lot, it's the best time of years clothes wise. You can (a) pile on the layers - more clothes - what's not to like - AND (b) crack open the accessories. Bring on snoods, boots, capes.... I'm practically salivating with the possibilities.<br />
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First on my wish-list, continuing my love affair (or maybe obsession?) with stripes, is this <a href="http://www.mintvelvet.co.uk/-midnight-&-grey-stripe-tee-/tops/mint-v/fcp-product/3360" target="_blank">top from Mint Velvet</a>. Spied during my recent London visit with small child in tow. Hence sadly only fondled, not tried on. It is lovely and I think the ruching at the sides and on the sleeves would be very flattering and comfortable:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ot8Dw-jBUO6vTg9sYYhJoKCntf0-EOspNZAvP-jP6GU6222eYFkLsPakVd9Zz7aGc9EtXBnz5Xg5HHKF7tJgMzl3kLNkrZffyrUf7UfAKQc7DfXwpnqpXPH-73UvppPMRfbuicnMI0o/s1600/mv-top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ot8Dw-jBUO6vTg9sYYhJoKCntf0-EOspNZAvP-jP6GU6222eYFkLsPakVd9Zz7aGc9EtXBnz5Xg5HHKF7tJgMzl3kLNkrZffyrUf7UfAKQc7DfXwpnqpXPH-73UvppPMRfbuicnMI0o/s320/mv-top.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/mint-velvet-stripe-t-shirt-midnight-grey/p649133" target="_blank">Mint velvet top</a> - midnight and grey stripes. I love the gathers. £39</i><br />
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And how fantastic is this <a href="http://www.mintvelvet.co.uk/ink-lurex-tabard/knitwear/mint-v/fcp-product/3208" target="_blank">sleeveless knitted tunic</a> which I also saw in the shop - it would look great styled over any of my growing collection of bretons to take them through into autumn / winter. They describe it as a 'Lurex Tabard' - (urgh - how to turn anyone off with one easy description?) It didn't appear to have any lurex when I saw it:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3iy19m76N6p91Lw9nZTov6_PvPtiUGWqxRQjV14CoPDGikVyDGJLK_-tQ-_KkNShCqjATB61ht5Z6vCpBCrDDbaSFPZd1qrlBmFK7vltsn0ucluMx7ToKlKHkSs8Axf_VajI350pL09s/s1600/mv-knit-tunic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3iy19m76N6p91Lw9nZTov6_PvPtiUGWqxRQjV14CoPDGikVyDGJLK_-tQ-_KkNShCqjATB61ht5Z6vCpBCrDDbaSFPZd1qrlBmFK7vltsn0ucluMx7ToKlKHkSs8Axf_VajI350pL09s/s320/mv-knit-tunic.jpg" width="231" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.mintvelvet.co.uk/ink-lurex-tabard/knitwear/mint-v/fcp-product/3208" target="_blank">Mint Velvet 'Ink Lurex Tabard' - £69</a></div>
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Anyway, to reign myself in a bit, here I am still working my 10 <strike>15 or so</strike> item wardrobe, in a 'last day of summer' outfit. If you can actually make out what I am wearing, that is. I have a strange light effect in this spot - maybe the house is haunted?! There is always a weird glow/ aura emanating from the glass over the door, and it's not a camera flash, I didn't use one...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nXA_BR6tWzlnqyillAJEgY7hsibUbLueIA-KvYmLrx01AWKV7Y3xKH2cbUwg6_WDlimpA_EjlaVPydH11nlAaw4lTVbXQVLtdhMtVbXl8ylNGaB4EexICJCix4LQwGk-0uuqtV_mStQ/s1600/Image+36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nXA_BR6tWzlnqyillAJEgY7hsibUbLueIA-KvYmLrx01AWKV7Y3xKH2cbUwg6_WDlimpA_EjlaVPydH11nlAaw4lTVbXQVLtdhMtVbXl8ylNGaB4EexICJCix4LQwGk-0uuqtV_mStQ/s640/Image+36.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
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<i>Skirt - <a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-skirts?resetFilters=true#product=903000060235" target="_blank">Whistles Jersey Tube Skirt</a></i></div>
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<i>Top - short sleeved breton <a href="http://www.hm.com/gb/subdepartment/LADIES?Nr=4294963716#Nr=4294963716" target="_blank">H&M</a></i></div>
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<i>Shirt - <a href="http://www.toast.co.uk/category/women+tops/tops.htm" target="_blank">Toast</a></i></div>
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<i>Shoes - Russell & Bromley tan loafers (<a href="http://www.russellandbromley.co.uk/drivers-boat-shoes/over-drive/invt/527407" target="_blank">similar in black</a>)</i></div>
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-52721149155782481042013-09-06T22:13:00.000+01:002013-09-06T22:16:50.238+01:00The 10 key itemsWell 10 or thereabouts, I am not a creature of exact science.<br />
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A while ago I edited my wardrobe heavily, attempting to attain the 'holy grail' of the capsule - 10 item - wardrobe.<br />
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I'm not quite at 10 items yet, but I do have space between the garments hanging in my wardrobe.<br />
I've been quite surprised by the items I have been wearing and which have been working for me.<br />
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Here is a run down of my absolute basics. As some of the items are no longer available I've included links to similar things should anyone be interested.<br />
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1. Tesco navy cotton pencil skirt (<a href="http://www.clothingattesco.com/skirts/f+f-supersoft-denim-pencil-skirt/invt/jl320142/&bklist=icat,4,shop,catgwomens,womens-skirts" target="_blank">similar here</a>). Skirts have featured more heavily in my 10 items than I expected. Maybe it's a little bit of not wanting to wear jeans / trousers ALL the time, maybe a bit weather related. But whatever, my Tesco navy pencil skirt has proved to be a real workhorse. I love navy and it fills a 'jean shaped hole' while still looking feminine and just ringing the changes from jeans. I plan to snap up this new season version as a 'spare' because, while Tesco clothes are great, I don't expect the original to last forever:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3qZJ6hzp4xrRlKagvvgUjwEKCplyE_YgUVrcpxoEPKPxR_1hqhxgVi_ma9kJz2-h4ARdNUuzBQ0yCqueNK6jRtDaARAGkvuaP1EggpBcGkuftUJhkiIyIhtJB8P4uwiSOcDQj4T_dZlc/s1600/tesco-skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3qZJ6hzp4xrRlKagvvgUjwEKCplyE_YgUVrcpxoEPKPxR_1hqhxgVi_ma9kJz2-h4ARdNUuzBQ0yCqueNK6jRtDaARAGkvuaP1EggpBcGkuftUJhkiIyIhtJB8P4uwiSOcDQj4T_dZlc/s320/tesco-skirt.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>
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2. Musto checked shirt (<a href="http://www.musto.com/womens-clothing/shirts/winter-plaid-shirt-navy131615.html" target="_blank">similar here</a>). This was a bizarre item. Had I been dreaming up my ideal 'must have' wardrobe, it's hardly the first item which would have sprung to mind! I just tried it on and decided I liked the checks. Mine is a subtler colour but I also like the colour-way below. Checked shirts are apparently the next big thing - they are everywhere! - so unknowingly I was right up to date for this season as well as (I think) having a reliable basic for years to come:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoEDQr5Y5HDZuREa-WkN9kX18wWJzz3PMRp8ix0XKBbhqYNb6feYErzi9Ylt0kqPpVivKSt8inxYY-P2dqdhCz_UGU2z4DBoYgxJOlSEJnf0uqeHA-5ASOaK6rAtUxa4KpulhW1JYaVJY/s1600/musto-shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoEDQr5Y5HDZuREa-WkN9kX18wWJzz3PMRp8ix0XKBbhqYNb6feYErzi9Ylt0kqPpVivKSt8inxYY-P2dqdhCz_UGU2z4DBoYgxJOlSEJnf0uqeHA-5ASOaK6rAtUxa4KpulhW1JYaVJY/s320/musto-shirt.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Musto are 'heavy duty' country wear I guess, so are a little pricer, but lots of equivalents are available if you just want a nice shirt and are not planning to go shooting ;-)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">From </span><a href="http://www.zara.com/uk/en/woman/shirts/checked-blouse-c269186p1467019.html" style="text-align: -webkit-auto;" target="_blank">Zara - see here</a><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_x-K4YgF4fzDiehIAn_cnXCuLQCgA8sH2qmSUs8Gh3a-x2XmwiewkT7xQ0YLK_Gha2iRGVio1dDRHBha25k2apNOI1vpetHkmUjVEjXOXZmFoW9okDDXXnwn4-5cbSAMEIyzPIYyf4ek/s1600/zara-check-blouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_x-K4YgF4fzDiehIAn_cnXCuLQCgA8sH2qmSUs8Gh3a-x2XmwiewkT7xQ0YLK_Gha2iRGVio1dDRHBha25k2apNOI1vpetHkmUjVEjXOXZmFoW9okDDXXnwn4-5cbSAMEIyzPIYyf4ek/s320/zara-check-blouse.jpg" width="258" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"> and also </span><a href="http://www.clothingattesco.com/tops+t-shirts/f+f-tartan-dip-back-shirt/invt/jk323209/" style="text-align: -webkit-auto;" target="_blank">Tesco - see here</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitikkwxMj8x9yal9JX9Ko0a5qvwTK51QQe8lbIHyxQi0oXWjfEP8f7kkyLc2Svwl5MJcdt0sucqmp15xU0_KDlWySydkYDrYPb_qpcdrh9eAP-AVGej0gbzsNvkHRi04c2jL8X6pPYTCc/s1600/tesco-tartan-shrt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitikkwxMj8x9yal9JX9Ko0a5qvwTK51QQe8lbIHyxQi0oXWjfEP8f7kkyLc2Svwl5MJcdt0sucqmp15xU0_KDlWySydkYDrYPb_qpcdrh9eAP-AVGej0gbzsNvkHRi04c2jL8X6pPYTCc/s320/tesco-tartan-shrt.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>
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3. Selection of breton tops - my new <a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/jigsaw-retro-stripe-jersey-top-red-blue/p398275" target="_blank">Jigsaw breton</a> (now further reduced at John Lewis - just £18):<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnoorvSE-7-rAKAy4LeaPD3HKqyYBtuQV6QRq6P5PXdtw_KLJ1oC-uwmFXR8yt6Nao1ijw4n_W7139jqiP0XN7LReNxh_kT-7qMS41tM8BilmxCsD1Lx2qUQqQ7NfEzvM67rVL69w-TM/s1600/Image+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnoorvSE-7-rAKAy4LeaPD3HKqyYBtuQV6QRq6P5PXdtw_KLJ1oC-uwmFXR8yt6Nao1ijw4n_W7139jqiP0XN7LReNxh_kT-7qMS41tM8BilmxCsD1Lx2qUQqQ7NfEzvM67rVL69w-TM/s200/Image+27.jpg" width="196" /></a></div>
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And <a href="http://www.zara.com/uk/en/woman/t-shirts/organic-cotton-t-shirt-c269189p1451523.html" target="_blank">classic navy and white from Zara here</a>:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9OyaKoCPWOPstDYJX0sbyw0-EY7J1QPNd9gW5p-3c1AIwkTAfhlOMUmGqX7JWPNhvEPx1_E0-kkPOloylADruTs-4zKKkdxsk_Vd3CVAhsH86Wc_JfqeiK9_mK9YWIQHfFRBqJ3EAwSs/s1600/zara-breton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9OyaKoCPWOPstDYJX0sbyw0-EY7J1QPNd9gW5p-3c1AIwkTAfhlOMUmGqX7JWPNhvEPx1_E0-kkPOloylADruTs-4zKKkdxsk_Vd3CVAhsH86Wc_JfqeiK9_mK9YWIQHfFRBqJ3EAwSs/s320/zara-breton.jpg" width="258" /></a></div>
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4. Sainsbury's black cropped capri trousers (<a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Slim-Leg-Trousers-Wool/dp/B00DV5HAI6?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_19&nodeId=42966030&sr=1-19&qid=1378494209" target="_blank">similar here from M&S</a>). Just one of those basic items you need to have I think. I like the 7/8 length - seems a bit fresher somehow and I'd say will still work for autumn with ankle boots:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu63NInHMfeMlyzhsEqRUGVIRYtZCkqb9psOkb8uqcXQ-78Iv_6G-_42idd_Q2YEcM_uqc8Tbo2EXyac1yslbmojK5suzXMkAsEPQjgfGKM4tvhANxWIj566n4ra8G2WYj-sQM4pvYlc4/s1600/autograph-78-trs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu63NInHMfeMlyzhsEqRUGVIRYtZCkqb9psOkb8uqcXQ-78Iv_6G-_42idd_Q2YEcM_uqc8Tbo2EXyac1yslbmojK5suzXMkAsEPQjgfGKM4tvhANxWIj566n4ra8G2WYj-sQM4pvYlc4/s320/autograph-78-trs.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
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5. Pink Joules cable knit crew neck jumper (<a href="http://www.crewclothing.co.uk/classic-cable-v-neck-w52-0133-pinkmartini/" target="_blank">similar here from Crew</a>). To add a bit of colour. Complemnts the navy and the shirt, and the trousers.... (you get the idea!):<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFchanUL_33Bgrw94nXKR9uCl-g5pJtCLY9UUC4HlCx7hiMWcCrtuZT9TZX0ktAOf44Dc61nceKVfRUfPhooOVCNZ9P-PWD3i8LiX7rB8mG5u9j6QsupJkA44vc5fJGLZ6nw1DlqX1ixc/s1600/crew-pink-jumper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFchanUL_33Bgrw94nXKR9uCl-g5pJtCLY9UUC4HlCx7hiMWcCrtuZT9TZX0ktAOf44Dc61nceKVfRUfPhooOVCNZ9P-PWD3i8LiX7rB8mG5u9j6QsupJkA44vc5fJGLZ6nw1DlqX1ixc/s320/crew-pink-jumper.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
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6. Toast & New Look denim / chambray shirts (<a href="http://www.clothingattesco.com/tops+t-shirts/f+f-denim-shirt/invt/jk322119/&bklist=icat,4,shop,catgwomens,womens-tops-and-t-shirts" target="_blank">similar here from Tesco</a>). Layers brilliantly over the maxi dress and breton tops and under the pink jumper. Works alone too. No-brainer:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFwlBxyOuoFDYoSzcShQC3EuPNeUSmjSs5CQDujg8uurkhxbM6vFbh2yNh0p7pgifNzIjPyQX5NPnRfzga6Wn-YVWvGIhvYliwya0z5WPHfCqZIl06dffj135aV7a1Qs0j-4Lsz2Vm6s/s1600/tesco-shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFwlBxyOuoFDYoSzcShQC3EuPNeUSmjSs5CQDujg8uurkhxbM6vFbh2yNh0p7pgifNzIjPyQX5NPnRfzga6Wn-YVWvGIhvYliwya0z5WPHfCqZIl06dffj135aV7a1Qs0j-4Lsz2Vm6s/s320/tesco-shirt.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>
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7. White Tesco jersey biker style jacket and navy White Company jersey style biker jacket. I like the fact these can be worn done up and also left open, giving very different looks. Two for one, or four for two. I am a creature of simple brain, but there you go. <a href="http://www.purecollection.com/.Knitted-Biker-Jacket_LK-L77.htm" target="_blank">Similar knitted autumn /winter version from Pure Collection</a> below:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLS_51Yw-t9vzEIf5KxDntN99Anfc2_zQQccbVR34pH5aTOciKVLk1OuCequaHg-ycloh729l7ZGnbQdY9krR3cwQro0ewZr9N3ZPBf3BEPYBkSf7RZJrnquou5HbXPRWLBtAh92tC1xs/s1600/pure-coll-biker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLS_51Yw-t9vzEIf5KxDntN99Anfc2_zQQccbVR34pH5aTOciKVLk1OuCequaHg-ycloh729l7ZGnbQdY9krR3cwQro0ewZr9N3ZPBf3BEPYBkSf7RZJrnquou5HbXPRWLBtAh92tC1xs/s320/pure-coll-biker.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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8. Long black Warehouse vest style maxi dress (<a href="http://www.asos.com/Vila/Vila-Vest-Maxi-Dress/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3180888&SearchQuery=black%20maxi%20dress&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black" target="_blank">similar from Asos</a>).<br />
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This has proved to be an absolute necessity. It can be worn so many ways - as a dress on its own, over a tee, under a tee - under a jacket - with scarf, with bold necklace, belted up etc etc.) If I was starting from scratch and had to buy one item I think this would be it - on a cost per use basis - and t<a href="http://www.asos.com/Vila/Vila-Vest-Maxi-Dress/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3180888&SearchQuery=black%20maxi%20dress&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black" target="_blank">his one from Asos</a> is an absolute bargain at £14!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8XVVahASf5lj6qOwdeMdoi43OtQOZVxWHepl33yXXwv3XjopzBVtNO8j5_nCTlULtYMBFn9ZpI-sZ6-4eYulja-1sPHzvbq1P-CANdGLQ48DH_nmSnwOTWUkA-m8Grw7G678G4PwtGeg/s1600/asos-maxi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8XVVahASf5lj6qOwdeMdoi43OtQOZVxWHepl33yXXwv3XjopzBVtNO8j5_nCTlULtYMBFn9ZpI-sZ6-4eYulja-1sPHzvbq1P-CANdGLQ48DH_nmSnwOTWUkA-m8Grw7G678G4PwtGeg/s320/asos-maxi.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
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9. M&S black knee length swingy jersey skirt. Can't find an equivalent and don't really want to! Unbelievably it was all I had in the suitable / flattering black skirt line! And it has now been replaced by the <a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/whistles-jersey-tube-skirt/p447426" target="_blank">Whistles black jersey tube skirt</a>. A necessary basic, in much the same way as the black trousers:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfirnSWEt0mQ1X9AZ8RZ7wr3sRUe-ACwBaVezZXbZEH9_gqSUVL9o5Plb4VGmPwXg2T2dB9pf6k4Q6GxhHZLHFY1xN4w4v-QEMc268rcwzwjD-LU3EFKdif1w_PSTnHTPRiVUll71tH4/s1600/whistles-skirt1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfirnSWEt0mQ1X9AZ8RZ7wr3sRUe-ACwBaVezZXbZEH9_gqSUVL9o5Plb4VGmPwXg2T2dB9pf6k4Q6GxhHZLHFY1xN4w4v-QEMc268rcwzwjD-LU3EFKdif1w_PSTnHTPRiVUll71tH4/s320/whistles-skirt1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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10. Loose Zara black top - <a href="http://www.zara.com/uk/en/woman/t-shirts/oversize-t-shirt-c269189p1430011.html" target="_blank">similar here</a>. Because everyone (well I do at least) needs a black t-shirt:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPz2x3MFRqcb89EL-1duwF2-y3rh94roCRvLmKg5YVUCYuJJVhaYeW6nVgwYnw7V8LLUBMF-BEffORDa2jy3L5vng0f4Guv17_ZYhA4TSR7MryNO0WndWQBjfpjF8Ae2fYuXFHM3Ht5Jo/s1600/zara-black-t.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPz2x3MFRqcb89EL-1duwF2-y3rh94roCRvLmKg5YVUCYuJJVhaYeW6nVgwYnw7V8LLUBMF-BEffORDa2jy3L5vng0f4Guv17_ZYhA4TSR7MryNO0WndWQBjfpjF8Ae2fYuXFHM3Ht5Jo/s320/zara-black-t.jpg" width="258" /></a></div>
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10a. I haven't included jeans as I haven't worn them much recently. Realistically though, any 10 item wardrobe would need a pair of jeans. My current favourites which will be added to the mix are <a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/clothing-427/jeans-446/boyfriend-jeans-2239041/moto-vintage-boyfriend-jeans-1992097?refinements=category~%5b209757%7c208527%5d&bi=1&ps=20" target="_blank">these from Topshop</a>:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Zxv-yGVEOzHzoOgfe1jN_VbSJ18LXhJW93hhNFHGpQQOI3hEhRc2GwX17mqb9GeTNx1Y1cgkjjDPCKBIASrE9qoTrA2ZbzzIri50M96x7fQ65CjmJEWvAms95N_T0tOxqP4TRx0aDRI/s1600/moto-bf-jeans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Zxv-yGVEOzHzoOgfe1jN_VbSJ18LXhJW93hhNFHGpQQOI3hEhRc2GwX17mqb9GeTNx1Y1cgkjjDPCKBIASrE9qoTrA2ZbzzIri50M96x7fQ65CjmJEWvAms95N_T0tOxqP4TRx0aDRI/s320/moto-bf-jeans.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/clothing-427/jeans-446/boyfriend-jeans-2239041/moto-vintage-boyfriend-jeans-1992097?refinements=category~%5b209757%7c208527%5d&bi=1&ps=20" target="_blank">Moto Boyfriend jeans - Topshop £42</a></div>
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These are just the 'bare bones'. <br />
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I haven't talked about the myriad of shoes, bags, scarves and other accessories which are key to varying the look. I've been plundering my reserves of those to keep me sane. Maybe I'll do a future post on the accessories which I find most useful to make the 10 item look more interesting.... :-)<br />
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The 10 <strike>or so</strike> clothing items will change as I move further into my warmer autumn wear, I'll attempt to keep the list updated!<br />
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-42955985170112566312013-09-06T12:10:00.000+01:002013-09-08T19:44:20.363+01:00A hole in my wardrobeI mean - how CAN it have happened?<br />
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After all my purchasing and browsing and fiddling over the years, it took a radical wardrobe 'declutter' to discover that one of my absolute essentials is a black skirt. Not just any black skirt mind you: I have some too short, some too long, some too large (although none too small, oddly?!), some too buttoned, some too bunchy...I won't bore you, the list goes on. <br />
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No - what I needed was something really minimal, simple, stretchy and 'flat'. I have plenty going on around the waistline already thank you very much - I don't need bulging zips and sticky outy button tabs adding to my woes.<br />
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Now I may have said it many times before - but I'll say it again - this blog is a learning curve for me. Don't come here expecting any answers - or, if you do, be prepared to wait a long time while I muddle through stuff and the penny eventually drops!<br />
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However....if you also have come to the conclusion that a simple black skirt is what you need to fill your wardrobe hole (a kind of 'skirt shaped alternative to black trousers' I guess) then you may have come to the right place. I give you this:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX7O1SNXtmoMkfA0pJFlaSgUvvDftzt2EilUNrlSpATBh0TyAaSRQj9bUy-duoLAJFAqw_qwhDJiASZvMdAANJesrKyBkrm7RbqsIkvaqcZkRlQpTwzjUEE_7HxzboUz6mztLlXmPZJCE/s1600/whistles-skirt1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX7O1SNXtmoMkfA0pJFlaSgUvvDftzt2EilUNrlSpATBh0TyAaSRQj9bUy-duoLAJFAqw_qwhDJiASZvMdAANJesrKyBkrm7RbqsIkvaqcZkRlQpTwzjUEE_7HxzboUz6mztLlXmPZJCE/s320/whistles-skirt1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/whistles-jersey-tube-skirt/p447426?colour=Black" target="_blank">Whistles Jersey skirt - £45</a> (John Lewis)</i><br />
<i><a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-skirts?resetFilters=true#r=s0&product=903000060235" target="_blank">More sizes available here - Whistles online</a></i></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij8GseAyIJf90kT5EgDvzymZTL09G0VHLMardz5etw8RNksUb1EzmSLdiuIf714xiyZIkxCLQPp18EqPXyZH5M9OLMxPYsU9unyMtSBCps8NTF6q4JUmGHj8uG4zsI9RAJD_w5KvjCjFA/s1600/whistles-skirt2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij8GseAyIJf90kT5EgDvzymZTL09G0VHLMardz5etw8RNksUb1EzmSLdiuIf714xiyZIkxCLQPp18EqPXyZH5M9OLMxPYsU9unyMtSBCps8NTF6q4JUmGHj8uG4zsI9RAJD_w5KvjCjFA/s320/whistles-skirt2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's a jersey skirt from Whistles - called the 'tube skirt'. It simply slips on, no zips or buttons. It is just above knee length on me - although they do a longer version, which the jury is still out on... (for me, but could be practical come the colder weather) - see below:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLKxwMp-T1K6lk4I9ClQu5Ks4-UzJl10Ry4Y_sTgrrGgJwoTw6YKZFqztc2GcJGabxUciIwG9ThbuYkyP55kOCBGgskZ0O_PKMPnMgSrRN5bY9keQXEK5TVGjHDO9EkcGsusRzLEIWBoA/s1600/whistles-long-skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLKxwMp-T1K6lk4I9ClQu5Ks4-UzJl10Ry4Y_sTgrrGgJwoTw6YKZFqztc2GcJGabxUciIwG9ThbuYkyP55kOCBGgskZ0O_PKMPnMgSrRN5bY9keQXEK5TVGjHDO9EkcGsusRzLEIWBoA/s200/whistles-long-skirt.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/whistles-long-jersey-tube-skirt-black/p611072" target="_blank">Longer version of Whistles skirt (£55) at John Lewis</a></i></div>
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or <a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-skirts?resetFilters=true#product=903000060576" target="_blank">Whistles online</a></div>
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The short version (which I bought) is £45, which naturally equals a saving of £80 rather than any actual expenditure as such - as by buying this I avoided the pleated offering from Jigsaw (post the other day) which rang in at £125. Simples :-)<br />
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Here I am yesterday in London at the top of the 'View from the Shard'. Our school is not back yet so we had a final 'day out' day. Boy - what a day it was. I do not intend to repeat rush hour tube travel and small child combo anytime soon. <i>(By the way, note how even at the top of the Shard my photos - or rather the helpful assistant's photos - are still dismal. It is clearly a case of blaming the tools and my phone is not up to the job.)</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqKu6aVsc2SL1zw2jsG0Dug3DaVVwcdK_ewb5f-2Q3tOw-ucu6sAUsPhY3BDu56n15zOjTQuFkV1p4qptdorv2ZVF0Iz01wUXROZI85HCUZrccq3W5NWYt5sKIXTJq_VF1x3hgrUrX3U/s1600/Image+30+-+Version+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqKu6aVsc2SL1zw2jsG0Dug3DaVVwcdK_ewb5f-2Q3tOw-ucu6sAUsPhY3BDu56n15zOjTQuFkV1p4qptdorv2ZVF0Iz01wUXROZI85HCUZrccq3W5NWYt5sKIXTJq_VF1x3hgrUrX3U/s400/Image+30+-+Version+2.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
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<i>Jacket - navy jersey 'biker' style from The White Company</i></div>
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<i>Top - short sleeved breton - H&M</i></div>
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<i>Skirt - navy pencil skirt - Tesco (<a href="http://www.clothingattesco.com/skirts/f+f-supersoft-denim-pencil-skirt/invt/jl320142/&bklist=icat,4,shop,catgwomens,womens-skirts" target="_blank">similar here</a>)</i></div>
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<i>Shoes - tan TODS-a-likes from Russell & Bromley (old)</i></div>
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<i>Bag - Longchamp - <a href="http://www.selfridges.com/en/Bags/Brand-rooms/Brands/LONGCHAMP/Le-Pliage/?brandname=LONGCHAMP&lhnDeptId=358751&llc=sn&ppp=min" target="_blank">available from Selfridges</a></i></div>
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<i>Necklace - <a href="http://schoolgatestyle.tictail.com/product/overlapping-leaves-necklace-gold" target="_blank">SchoolGateStyle shop</a></i></div>
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The torture of having to pass by the majority of shops just begging me to go in! The shoes - oh the shoes - that had to be ignored. And the lego that had to be played with. Oh yes: Selfridges have a very nice little lego play station. Which, oddly enough, I somehow wasn't aware of until yesterday. If it came with fully paid up and vetted Norland nannies I may have been sorely tempted to leave in situ... but it didn't and I am not THAT bad a mother.... (I think! But the temptation was strong.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyXgRN8wyxuK1zprIx6A26ApmhEnfMTtILCLwFsq6-W578wWkHHIFdkJuVWfJJGpiX8j9zmxs_uHVJVDo_ysPueVygHQkvLdDAJ_ErnceAVIed0MioRw4lMpy5BHyuDZOPLQ_UUpAJPyU/s1600/Image+32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyXgRN8wyxuK1zprIx6A26ApmhEnfMTtILCLwFsq6-W578wWkHHIFdkJuVWfJJGpiX8j9zmxs_uHVJVDo_ysPueVygHQkvLdDAJ_ErnceAVIed0MioRw4lMpy5BHyuDZOPLQ_UUpAJPyU/s320/Image+32.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>The Shard was amazing - and I would highly recommend it. It was so well run and (shock horror...I am so cynical and old with low expectations) had such friendly and efficient staff. </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6ukLTQC2m_7elpEuF3GBeHiVR6x889aZEsvlfUUzKrbJASNky4kc6mx5IN7QbBxDJdwGij5ERM77uWloemhc9on5-Mz9nZpM0L6Yh1K1hSBRKEm7kcvPW247dvSOT4kIyH74H3js4GQ/s1600/Image+31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6ukLTQC2m_7elpEuF3GBeHiVR6x889aZEsvlfUUzKrbJASNky4kc6mx5IN7QbBxDJdwGij5ERM77uWloemhc9on5-Mz9nZpM0L6Yh1K1hSBRKEm7kcvPW247dvSOT4kIyH74H3js4GQ/s320/Image+31.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>Loved the 'open-ness' - wow!</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwSvQ3fNx9NY8FvZHrn4rbndy18UW6qLROHjVlkKm4466PQxZc1CXCHKgzqhAKlszHNuo2P2aslrawT4tzfqlP9X3kK-i4U7izkwZuKbmxcRzXXdbQ-OUSKL4yLY2q_fHue99ukO5FbxQ/s1600/Image+34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwSvQ3fNx9NY8FvZHrn4rbndy18UW6qLROHjVlkKm4466PQxZc1CXCHKgzqhAKlszHNuo2P2aslrawT4tzfqlP9X3kK-i4U7izkwZuKbmxcRzXXdbQ-OUSKL4yLY2q_fHue99ukO5FbxQ/s320/Image+34.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Simply amazing views.... and so peaceful - the noises are so far away.</i></div>
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-78882583812902124082013-09-05T08:08:00.001+01:002013-09-08T19:47:23.608+01:00Stripes and No 19A couple of therapeutic purchases.<br />
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One was 'considered': I'd tested Chanel no 19 Poudre a few months ago and kept coming back to it.<br />
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I love Chanel no 19 anyway, and this I think this version is even better than the original, in the Eau de Parfum concentration anyway. <br />
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Since I had a £5 off voucher and a double points voucher from Boots, now seemed the perfect time for a purchase.<br />
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The other buy was an impulse one! While wandering around John Lewis, I had a browse through the dregs of the clearance rail, and immediately spotted this little striped Jigsaw top in amidst a sea of nondescript florals. I've been wearing a lot of stripes recently and feel good in them, so although an impulse buy, a good one I hope...!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8nfHX7zXBS8WbA0FQF_shhTp3KUB0vheOp7-C-yFamwyFoMGZFOewvI3gKa1hRgo9TkI7Hvl7nIuP1DCtkw2cXccpy9Eeap7fjX-TUhkftj7JjK0a5bkBjqAjIWUR6arZtaGsGsuBVc/s1600/Image+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8nfHX7zXBS8WbA0FQF_shhTp3KUB0vheOp7-C-yFamwyFoMGZFOewvI3gKa1hRgo9TkI7Hvl7nIuP1DCtkw2cXccpy9Eeap7fjX-TUhkftj7JjK0a5bkBjqAjIWUR6arZtaGsGsuBVc/s320/Image+27.jpg" width="315" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVEEUiHSwVE5CfcvpPzAXH9J9DI9SRTQNGgtI1TKLnFJB-wyHJzfeTGSju3n69Pm5CEBDX7I2NuGleU8zXi0tydDBVKQJJjcUIuEdaB9oL3TuKmrTfDWpT-9CV-Lp-5w6qJvyT_9lviE/s1600/Image+28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVEEUiHSwVE5CfcvpPzAXH9J9DI9SRTQNGgtI1TKLnFJB-wyHJzfeTGSju3n69Pm5CEBDX7I2NuGleU8zXi0tydDBVKQJJjcUIuEdaB9oL3TuKmrTfDWpT-9CV-Lp-5w6qJvyT_9lviE/s320/Image+28.jpg" width="293" /></a></div>
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Chanel No 19 Poudre - <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/CHANEL-N19-POUDRE-Eau-De-Parfum-50ml_1213765/" target="_blank">get it here from Boots - plus Advantage points!</a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JUEeSHCAKrTjEWJzEH3hTY5lcCFjRatg2NmxCysnZvtK0s6_UaQZkPqfqhynIz46LOIJxzG44cKi81hvtEtFBAiGWppOoe2v2Up5jVzSuZJGCI1bQwHanZ79J8JiRo3W-ECaxgNjMfw/s1600/Image+24+-+Version+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JUEeSHCAKrTjEWJzEH3hTY5lcCFjRatg2NmxCysnZvtK0s6_UaQZkPqfqhynIz46LOIJxzG44cKi81hvtEtFBAiGWppOoe2v2Up5jVzSuZJGCI1bQwHanZ79J8JiRo3W-ECaxgNjMfw/s640/Image+24+-+Version+2.jpg" width="187" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yippee - an outside picture! Excuse the heavy little person cropping outage.</td></tr>
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<i>Top: Jigsaw (sale) - <a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/jigsaw-retro-stripe-jersey-top-red-blue/p398275" target="_blank">buy here - now reduced FURTHER to £18 at John Lewis</a></i></div>
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<i>Skirt: Tesco (last year)</i></div>
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<i>Shoes: Converse (<a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/converse-chuck-taylor-all-star-low-sneakers/p40818?colour=White" target="_blank">available from John Lewis</a>)</i></div>
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<i>Gold overlapping leaves necklace: <a href="http://schoolgatestyle.tictail.com/" target="_blank">SchoolGateStyle shop</a></i></div>
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<i>Sunglasses: Oscar de la Renta from TK Maxx</i></div>
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Oh, and by the way, I tried on the Jigsaw pleated skirt from my last post.<br />
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It was £125.<br />
It was 100% polyester.<br />
It was vile.<br />
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Problem solved :-)<br />
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ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4819322852249769411.post-42238871291037996112013-08-29T19:46:00.005+01:002013-09-08T19:46:44.891+01:00Short storyOr Shorts Story actually, that was the name.<br />
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Mentally filed away for later use.<br />
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If (like many a time I suspect) you wonder what on earth this woman is wittering on about - it's this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBqNiCUALuAnat2jR1lk3t15RsPwcHpknDqqY2oTKjLNuWVN2kHlYxS0JmOZrU1bOU2k9dJw6-dbZ_MyTQzJVrSUmFU-FJTRAPnfQQ6nrxte8HBruyqZeTxVedmWhAdHTn6RUl7k2NOs/s1600/opi-shorts-story.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBqNiCUALuAnat2jR1lk3t15RsPwcHpknDqqY2oTKjLNuWVN2kHlYxS0JmOZrU1bOU2k9dJw6-dbZ_MyTQzJVrSUmFU-FJTRAPnfQQ6nrxte8HBruyqZeTxVedmWhAdHTn6RUl7k2NOs/s320/opi-shorts-story.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>OPI Shorts Story - <a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/opi-nails-nail-lacquer-pinks/p131556?colour=Passion" target="_blank">available here from John Lewis</a> </i></div>
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<i>(click on the 5th colour swatch, 2nd row!)</i></div>
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Pink - yes.<br />
Sickly - possibly.<br />
On my wish list - (for some unfathomable reason) - yes.<br />
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Pink suits me, I do believe. In the light of 2 x pink lipsticks and a Bobbi Brown 'pale pink' blusher, I'm hoping so anyway!<br />
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<u>Other items on my wish list:</u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiigHuGCz1J3h2LmwQL9WjSnSqNHsf4oTUdXyLAihKQYt3WDJJ2n1C0Kq2TAme-ELLB9vhtqoveeDIRS77Cb36b2GUiuvhNqNKKCftYrbGIa4ra8ScESIvbXa53IUEO8l0UxYVjHTwwS1g/s1600/jigsaw-pleat-skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiigHuGCz1J3h2LmwQL9WjSnSqNHsf4oTUdXyLAihKQYt3WDJJ2n1C0Kq2TAme-ELLB9vhtqoveeDIRS77Cb36b2GUiuvhNqNKKCftYrbGIa4ra8ScESIvbXa53IUEO8l0UxYVjHTwwS1g/s320/jigsaw-pleat-skirt.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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Jigsaw pleated skirt</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvfKtldkeWBSxT_tzI9pM14bx6gbj3renFGglsAC2-ap8mKYDz3SHhQeRn76KFQsjuxLKSCJZMZ86_r2dEjVo61gTlalnfQew_18YVIoYtr_IP2O3v8jbKbC3h2YF6nSWW3tIbILNkuQ/s1600/jigsaw-red-pompom-scarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvfKtldkeWBSxT_tzI9pM14bx6gbj3renFGglsAC2-ap8mKYDz3SHhQeRn76KFQsjuxLKSCJZMZ86_r2dEjVo61gTlalnfQew_18YVIoYtr_IP2O3v8jbKbC3h2YF6nSWW3tIbILNkuQ/s320/jigsaw-red-pompom-scarf.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/jigsaw-pom-pom-scarf-red/p647233" target="_blank">Jigsaw red pom pom scarf</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50w0MpUCFg3Kl4EUXirLcLCgWK7encD1D_05MQmZd96WV3DAqLFNiWKhHwf91JtbCSUj_BLHqZ3yomsvli-HxbWt_BEZdCbfd7kkVydN9TTVL5BrhuGkw_zR5FASPhTr7vIC0GD8XMFg/s1600/whistles-spot-scarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50w0MpUCFg3Kl4EUXirLcLCgWK7encD1D_05MQmZd96WV3DAqLFNiWKhHwf91JtbCSUj_BLHqZ3yomsvli-HxbWt_BEZdCbfd7kkVydN9TTVL5BrhuGkw_zR5FASPhTr7vIC0GD8XMFg/s400/whistles-spot-scarf.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/accessories?resetFilters=true#filters=PRODUCT_TYPE!scarves&page=0&product=903000060547" target="_blank">Whistles 'ovoid spot' scarf</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBbHyklOdERrTc4sASqah4JTAFuR-cmfolpaQFdIzqkdp6GQE4j8WKSTYujjNLo_EShjZN8OGwaLnUYCvc5xHgEDJX1Lg-nlFL8filJ5lm2MOl8yYuhHnASkdDFBAoG1E-xtI0dP-R9LI/s1600/pure-coll-navy-swtr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBbHyklOdERrTc4sASqah4JTAFuR-cmfolpaQFdIzqkdp6GQE4j8WKSTYujjNLo_EShjZN8OGwaLnUYCvc5xHgEDJX1Lg-nlFL8filJ5lm2MOl8yYuhHnASkdDFBAoG1E-xtI0dP-R9LI/s320/pure-coll-navy-swtr.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a href="http://www.purecollection.com/.Cashmere-Boyfriend-V-Neck-Sweater_LK-L47.htm" target="_blank">Pure collection V neck boyfriend sweater </a></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u>I also have in my sights:</u></span></div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: center;">Pink tweed Jigsaw skirt (there I was I hoping Jigsaw were 'finding their way' again... but no picture on website!)</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Orla Kiely pink(see the worrying trend?) and blue scarf - no picture anywhere - but it's in John Lewis. Helpful (not).</li>
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The White Company autumn catalogue had arrived; nothing immediately grabbed me. There was nothing offensive, but just a rehash of last winter (most of which already seem to have bought!)<br />
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Having said that, I may make an exception for this maxi skirt:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IN1GLeRXRwvsvxEzf7EFClTL8-HISE5K1QdvRGeNadKrWBAi3SNq9WuUQUGdEuUpVPpXpvXib6IdZFzUBw7zJROHXiuRPm-RcKiObc-ywWshxx23XNLcveWVnPLTAhKgB1qtprrz3VM/s1600/white-co-maxi-skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IN1GLeRXRwvsvxEzf7EFClTL8-HISE5K1QdvRGeNadKrWBAi3SNq9WuUQUGdEuUpVPpXpvXib6IdZFzUBw7zJROHXiuRPm-RcKiObc-ywWshxx23XNLcveWVnPLTAhKgB1qtprrz3VM/s320/white-co-maxi-skirt.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.thewhitecompany.com/clothing/new-arrivals/jersey-maxi-skirt--mid-grey-marl/" target="_blank">White Company Jersey Maxi Skirt</a></i></div>
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A couple of recent outfit pictures below. Excuse the general carnage which surrounds me. I've momentarily lost the wherewithal and time to do anything about it.<br />
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Still surviving on a 10 (ok maybe 15) item wardrobe. (Not including accessories!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpx4Gr7I8WlW491VLUGzFnUb8v7IdjK70yrpO9cEgiGDNEb6WG9903XC-Vfw023Q5WWVogVBjItRyrvpU75FaUSbYWWV2R_NjrYfNbR4KWVp-BRD6c5A2ZfQwfkXtVEOvsTVacLy8gYXY/s1600/Image+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpx4Gr7I8WlW491VLUGzFnUb8v7IdjK70yrpO9cEgiGDNEb6WG9903XC-Vfw023Q5WWVogVBjItRyrvpU75FaUSbYWWV2R_NjrYfNbR4KWVp-BRD6c5A2ZfQwfkXtVEOvsTVacLy8gYXY/s640/Image+4.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
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<i>Breton shrt sleeved top - H&M</i></div>
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<i>Black capri trousers - Sainsbury's</i></div>
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<i>White jersey 'biker' style cardigan - Florence & Fred (Tesco) <-- thanks to Sue at Susie So So for that tip :-)</i></div>
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<i>Bag - <a href="http://www.mulberry.com/shop/womens-bags/shoulder-bags/bayswater-chocolate-natural-leather-with-brass" target="_blank">Mulberry Bayswater</a></i></div>
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<i>Shoes - Russell and Bromley (old)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjF4hORyOBvkNmQGzHHnSFPqiryJml3TrY-tLjmDrDRcujXR0-JfgBdzPqOI45pKlvJQAUF1es852LAX1B7FjxxhV8QkHfscW6l_rXWuDVWeWNqym2UID40PUYQZ6h09tVAxaLBdIoD4M/s1600/Image+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjF4hORyOBvkNmQGzHHnSFPqiryJml3TrY-tLjmDrDRcujXR0-JfgBdzPqOI45pKlvJQAUF1es852LAX1B7FjxxhV8QkHfscW6l_rXWuDVWeWNqym2UID40PUYQZ6h09tVAxaLBdIoD4M/s640/Image+1.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
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<i>Shirt - Musto (don't ask) (How did it survive the cull..? Double don't ask!)</i></div>
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<i>Jumper - <a href="http://www.joules.com/Womens-Clothing/Jumpers-Cardigans" target="_blank">Joules (similar here)</a></i></div>
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<i>Trousers - Sainsbury's as above</i></div>
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<i>Bag & Shoes - Mulberry & Russell & Bromley as above</i></div>
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<br />ASHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899446455250296416noreply@blogger.com14