Monday wants: the fur gilet

Is it a gilet, a vest or even a waistcoat?? I've seen lots of these over the years but now I'm obsessed!! I mean completely inappropriate with the current permanent wet weather system we have in the UK with constant torrential rain - I'd end up looking more like a soggy wet hound than the glamorous vixen image they convey to me but I just think they are so chic!

3 groundrules:

1. Must be faux fur - I feel that goes without saying but was horrified to end up on a site selling real fur for just £40 or so...I do wear leather and eat meat so maybe I'm hypocritical but wearing fur would be a step too far for me (as for angora the recent PETA videos being shared everywhere make me so glad I can't wear wool! Man made fibres all the way for me!!)
2. Ideally it would be black - I love wearing black, it suits me, it's glamorous and it goes with EVERYTHING. If I'm trying out a new trend (well for me it is) then it has to be a classic colour so that I'm testing the concept not whether I suit yeti white...but maybe grey or natural could work..
3. It has to be hip length I love that layered look

So here are 3 of my  favourites I've spied online while perusing the post Christmas sales:

Mango

It's black, it's the right length and it is a very reasonable £29.99 in the sale, but I'm not sure about the belt or the snuggle factor  (it's a thing honest!)...

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White Stuff

Ok so its not black but grey but it looks rather snuggly and warm and soft and strokeable....oh and it is on sale for just £52.50 what's not to love?

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French Connection

More expensive and appalling styling in my opinion on the site as you really can't tell what the item actually looks like, that aside it looks a great length and super soft but it's twice the price of the others....

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Are you a faux fur gilet type of gal or is all too fuzzy for you?

Lxx

A new blogging schedule for 2014

Following on from my last post I've been doing quite a lot of thinking about my blog and what direction I want to take it in! Don't worry the same sort of ramblings will occur but I want to try and be a bit more organised with my posting (I mean lets face it 2013 was a fail in terms of regular content wasn't it!) so here is my plan:

Sundays are going to be called Schedule Sunday - this is where I'll post about my more random thoughts, what I have coming up and inspiration for the week ahead as well as reviewing what I did or didn't achieve in the week prior!

Wednesdays are going to be a new feature following on from several previous posts called Workwear Wednesday - now this may sound boring but this is the new "fashiony" section of the blog. I've realised I spend a lot of time as I think lots of others do taking style inspirations from TV shows or films whether it be consciously or sub-consciously. So in the aim of finding my style groove in 2014 as I lurch precariously towards my 4th decade in 4 years I wanted to start my own fashion area on my blog :)

Following on with my love of alliteration I'm going to start a regular Filofax Friday feature. As you will know if you've read my blog before I adore my Filofaxes, I have (far) too many and I tend to swop them out to change according to the time of year and the seasons as well as what I have going on in my life. The first couple of Filofax Fridays will focus on my current set up and the binders that I am using (currently 3: A5 Osterley in Grey for work, Personal Adelphi in Magenta for everything and a Pocket Imperial Purple Finchley for a smaller, travel friendly, on the go binder!) so if you are a Filofax buff keep your eyes peeled next week for that.

Amongst these regular posts there will be random additions including monthly favourites, handbag features, study planning and organisation, work planning and organisation, travel guides and recommendations/planning and mutterings about anything else that takes my fancy! I mean this is my little space on the interweb isn't it so I'm going to write about what I love!!

I hope you all enjoy the more regular posting and I hope that I can build back the followers and communication that I used to have before my blogging mojo vamooshed and I stopped writing! Here's to 2014

Lxx

p.s keep a look out there's a blog redesign coming too, well New Year, New Mojo = New Style....

Hello 2014....what's new for Mrs P?

So it is the first day of 2014 and while the weather (wet, windy and a bit more wet) seems stuck in 2013 it's a good day to reflect on 2013 but also plan for some exciting things in the upcoming year ahead!

In terms of New Years Resolutions it's a short and sweet list for me this year - after all the excitement of getting married and visiting Hawaii in 2013 I wanted to focus on improving myself and becoming healthier and achieving some long term goals this year:

1) Start blogging regularly again! 

I miss blogging! One of my greatest pleasures is waffling on about nonsense in my little space on the interbob but I didn't seem to get my groove going last year - in my drafts folder are masses of unfinished posts but a new year means a new start! So thinking about about what I love includes of course planning, organisation and my Filofax, books and magazines - I love reading but don't do it enough, handbags and maybe even some random beauty posts! As well as some home improvement and studying posts...

2) Start writing my "novel"

When I first started blogging it was in part to see if I could develop a writing style because I'd love to know if one day the random plot lines and characters I have whirling around my head could ever make it into a cohesive story....so I have started to put together a plan of how I could make the fiction in my head into fiction on a page!

3) Cycle around the Isle of Wight

This came out of a conversation with my good friend Mr T about me having not visited the IOW other than for the festival. So what could be better than cycling around (probably from pub to pub) seeing beautiful scenery while burning off all the ice cream with some friends?

4) Eat my "5 a day" 

Like many people I think, I veer between being really good at making sure my diet contains lots of fruits and vegetables and then periods where I don't seem to eat any! So for 2014 I really want to make myself focus on being healthier and including vegetables and fruits EVERY DAY not just some of the days :)

5) Train for and complete a 10k

This year I (sort of) trained for and ran a 5k for the Race for Life but since then I've done virtually nothing in terms of exercise so a new year means a new start so time to get my (larger than it was) ass back into some regular exercise programme! Cardio tennis and spinning plus some running is the way forward....

6) Save, save and save some more

Next year Mr P and I are considering that a house move could be on the cards to somewhere with a bit more room so to do that I need to reign in my shopping addiction and try to focus more on saving those pennies. I also plan on finally sell those things I don't use that we have cluttering up our cosy abode so that money can also go into the pot! I saw today on Instagram (follow me I'm @Louloudorset to see pics of my life and especially my cat!!) the #2014closetremixchallenge by @jen_murph where there's a shopping ban (eeeek) and you only use the items in your closet - remixing them to create all new looks. Now I have a LOT of clothes but am one of those people that always feels like I have nothing to wear so I'm hoping this will motivate me big time to a) wear more of my wardrobe and b) prove to myself that I do not need to shop!!

So that's it, my goals for 2014, a framework of positive affirmations to work on improving myself with....are you willing to share yours? Do you set resolutions or do you not believe in them?

Much love to you all for 2014 

Lxx

Hello stranger.........

So here it is, my first post as a married lady....yes it has been so long since my last blog post that I've only gone and gotten married to Mr P!

I don't know why but since starting a new job and planning the wedding earlier this year I totally lost my blogging mojo. I wasn't sure what I would write about or if I would even ever update the blog again....but something the husband (LOVE!!!! saying that) said this evening sparked some inspiration so while I'm mentally making a list of new blog posts I thought I'd write a quick update to say SORRY I've been gone so long and if there's anyone left hopefully there's lots more to come from me!!

So here's a hint as to what my next post is going to be about - a real thought out, planned and considered one and not just a quick ramble like this one!

Much love LP xx

Me and the hubster

Honeymoon bliss

Eeek new girl...what to wear to work on your first day in a new job?

So as I mentioned in my previous post I have a new job which I am very excited about starting. But of course after 4 1/2 years at my last place it is going to be VERY strange being the new girl somewhere. The usual trying to remember everyone's names (something I am TERRIBLE at) trying to work out where everything is and what the nuances of the office are (do people make tea rounds or just make their own for example?)

And of the course the age old issue of what to wear. In an interview setting you know what to wear (usually a suit or key tailored pieces) and the people interviewing you are usually dressed up to, but in a day to day environment what is the dress code? Is it smart smarts (suits/tailored shirts etc) or is smart casual (smart jeans, or trousers but casual tops?) Is it uber relaxed on Fridays with jeans and sneakers (yes I know I'm British and we wear trainers but the word sneakers is so much more fun!)

I'd been doing some Google searching and reading blogs to see what people wear to work...my last place was super casual so I wore jeans everyday. But the new place not so much, I think, I believe it will vary depending on where I'm based or what I'm doing but essentially a whole lot smarter than what I've been used to on a daily basis. Which is no bad thing as I've missed getting dressed up for work, I mean it gives another excuse to go shopping doesn't it if nothing else!!

But I digress, to day one. Now tricky while this may be I do think going super smart is the only way forward - the last thing you want is to rock up and be under dressed for meeting the MD who just happens to be in that day at a loose end...so here is my plan of attack:

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1. Good black trousers
A wardrobe essential - flattering, good quality trousers are worth their weight in gold. I know that Oasis are my go to place for jeans and trousers. A bit more pricey than some other high street stores (wait for the online discounts or sales as they happen constantly!) but their trews fit me well - they are cut I guess for gals with curves. So find your shop where you know the clothes will work with you not against you - for example me and Zara trousers don't gel, I am too short and curvy for their bottoms. Nothing against them they just don't work for me so why stress myself out?

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2. A nice neutral shirt
Ideally on day one you want something you have worn before and you know you are comfy in. No stress about it being too low cut, or see through or pulling in the wrong places. You want to be put together but also feel comfortable as it will be stressful enough on your first day doing all the "firsts" without fretting about your wardrobe. I swear my Marks and Spencer, Dorothy Perkins and Zara for good office shirts/tops.

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3. The hot/cold element
Currently in Blighty we have snow up North and flooding down South (where I live) no sign of Spring whatsoever...so for my first day to go alongside the trousers and blouse I recommend either a smart blazer/jacket or a colourful pop from a bright cardigan. Keeps you warm, adds a bit of individuality and can be removed if the office is snug before adding back on and facing the elements outside! Again I swear by Marks and Spencer they do the most amazing cardigans I think I have them in nearly every colour and they wash and last so so so well!!

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4. Shoes...walk tall but be able to walk!
Another core staple is a good pair of black court shoes - yes they sound boring but I don't think any working girl can be without a smart but comfy pair of black shoes. These ones from Marks and Spencer are ideal - nice height and super comfy - I love their shoes plus full price they are only £19! Amazing value. They also come in loads of cool colours for when you want to be a bit more daring!

5. Accessories....
Now if you've been a reader for a while you will know I LOVE my accessories...from statement necklaces to a handbags I do think choosing the right accessories helps personalise an otherwise "safe" outfit. However on day one as I've mentioned before it is better err on the side of caution just in case your colleagues don't get your style. Therefore I'd keep accessories to a minimum for me this means - no jangling bangles for example just a classic watch, a simple necklace as I'm wearing a shirt I need something but nothing too large and then a plain bag that won't overpower the outfit....

This bag from Zara is perfect

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6. Make up/nails/perfume
Finally remember we always want to look groomed but try to avoid wearing more war paint than a Vegas showgirl. Less is more as my Mum would say!! I will aim (although not sure if I ever manage it) to look polished but have my make up look invisible like I'm not really wearing any...for me that means good foundation and powder to stop shine, some neutral eyeshadow and neutral lipstick/gloss. Again nothing too overpowering for perfume you don't want to be knows as the newbie with the stinky perfume after all! Finally on my nails I will be wearing Essie's Mademoiselle as I think it is the perfect barely there polish that just smartens up my nails enough to look done but in a unobtrusive way if that makes sense?

I hope you enjoyed this post, if so please comment and let me know...I have a part B planned of how I inject my personality into my working wardrobe - still using the basics above but adding more exciting accessories (shoes/belt/jewellery) into the mix

What do you wear for work? Is it smarts all the way or are you a casual dresser?

Lxx

Run Loulou Run...

So yet again it's been a while since I last posted and lots has happened!!! It is less than 6 months until I get to marry the fabulous Mr P (so far so good he hasn't backed out yet!!) I worked my last day in Bournemouth as I'm starting a new job tomorrow (eek) in my hometown - no more will I spend 2 1/2 hours a day driving to and from work and no more 5.50am alarm wake ups (Mr P is especially happy about that) I'll be able to try eating breakfast at home again and maybe even cooking dinner occasionally as I'm not getting home after 7pm!!

I've also been watching the new Cancer Research adverts with interest, the "Cancer we are coming to get you" initially I was a bit wary but having seen it several times I think it is a fantastic message and it has made me sit up and want to get involved because it is so positive, upbeat and really conveys the difference that Cancer Research makes to us beating this horrific disease.

My own history with the big C I've mentioned before having lost several amazing relatives including my Dad to it. Mr P as you'll know from my blog also had a significant brush with it a couple of years ago and thankfully beat it. But this was only down to the extensive research that had been going on - as his consultant told us when he said "don't worry you're completely curable" (possibly the best moment of my entire life)" but you're lucky because if this had been 10 years ago it would have been a completely different story"....a very sobering thought!

And that is why this morning I have signed up to run the 5k Race For Life in Sherborne (Dorset) on Sunday 23rd June 2013.

I am not a gym bunny, I am not super fit, I am not a "runner" I do however have 3 months, a fabulous best mate who is also my designated personal trainer to kick my arse into getting down the gym and a need to do something positive. So cancer - watch out I'm joining all those other amazing women and we are coming to get you!

You can sponsor me here http://www.raceforlifesponsorme.org/louloudorset

And of course I will be blogging about my getting into running journey regularly!

Do you run? Have you done a Race for Life? Any tips?

Lxx

Feeling the blues.....

So it's February already I mean seriously how?? But "thankfully" it's still cold, wet and raining so it still feels like January here by the seaside!!

In an attempt to pretend that Spring might be on its way I've switched up my Filofax to be the Finsbury in blue as it feels fresh and summery (unlike me sat here in a thick jumper and cosy slipper boots!)

I've also switched up my diary inserts to be the week on one page with notes again. I use this format in my "on the go" pocket sized Imperial Purple Finchley and in my work A5 Osterley and I used to used to use it in my Personal sized binders but I'd gotten used to the Cotton Cream week on two pages and was quite happy with them until recently....

However this year I'm finding with the wedding looming (7 months and counting eek) and lots of change going on at home I'm struggling to keep on top of my to do's for the week as they are slotted in all over the place - hence switching back. This way I have room on the left hand page for any appointments (hardly any!!) and loads and loads of room (i.e. a whole page) for my lists/to do's/ notes/ reminders etc meaning I feel much happier and in control!

I still have my month to view inserts in there so I can see exactly what is coming up but just a bit more room to write too!

So there it is no purple or pink for a change it is all about the blues....but not sad ones more tropical sea and skies to cheer up the continuous grey monotony!

How do you cheer yourself up in this miserable weather? Any tips or tricks?

Lx

Pretty Pretty Blue

Week on two pages (and yes I only put the Frixion in because it matches!!)