Style&Minimalism

Island Life on the Île de Porquerolles

**J.Won** Lolita Top in Light Blue* | **AYR** The Always Short* | **ATP Atelier** Rosa Sandals in Black | **Topshop** Straw Boater

**Cecilie Copenhagen** Flounce Off-Shoulder Dress | **Penelope Chilvers** Valenciana Espadrilles | **Retrosuperfuture** Flat Top Sunglasses in Havana | **Missoma** Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold* | **Missoma x Lucy Williams** Gold Graduated Fang Necklace

Not many people I’ve spoken to have heard of the Île de Porquerolles, it’s a one of three islands off the south coast of France, known as the Îles d’Hyères. Whilst planning our little post-wedding South of France road trip I met up with Lou Dungate. I mentioned to her my plan to visit the island and I was surprised to hear that she and her boyfriend had actually visited it the previous summer. Aside from telling me that I must go, she also gave me some important advice, book early. It’s a small island with limited accommodation, a few hotels and some apartments.

We stayed in a hotel which was clean but small, I think if we went back we would definitely rent an apartment. It gives you the chance to make your own pack-lunch (there’s only one beach bar on the island) and offers a little more space and quiet. Most of the hotels surround the town square and underneath are bars and restaurants. It’s a busy square, people arrive on the Île de Porquerolles all day long and their first port of call is the town square.

We hired bikes to escape the crowds and explore the island, we came prepared for this with a cool bag which meant we didn’t have to worry about cycling back to the town every time we wanted food or drink; I would highly recommend doing this. Although, on one occasion our lunch got quite a bit of abuse from me, excited by the cycling I took us on a fairly dodgy path (usually only for walkers) and managed to throw the cool bag to the ground on several occasions. When we got to the beach a little later in the day it did not look pretty but still tasted great, and the rosé was still in the bottle.

We stayed four nights on the Île de Porquerolles but I would recommend two or three at most. Being small there’s only so much you can do, you can cycle all over the island in a day if you can cope with cycling in the heat. We stopped at various beaches but our favourite was the Plage de Notre Dame on the North-East coast, the further from the port the quieter it got, though I wouldn’t say anywhere on the island was secluded. Most of the island is in the Port-Cros Parc National, this means no fires, no smoking, no cars and that the beaches are fairly rough and ready, don’t expect loungers and pristine beaches, this is all about getting back to nature, although camping isn’t allowed.

Accommodation
L’Arche de Porquerolles

Food & Drink
Le Porquerollais Christophe (highly recommend) | L’Eucalyptus (Lao meets France) | L’Escale (great for pre-dinner drinks) | Les Petits Plats (great deli for lunch)

Activities
L’Indien (boat hire, for a decent engine you need a boat license) | La Meduse (bike hire)

Beautiful Besse-Sur-Issole

**Frame Denim** Linen T-shirt in Black | **Levi’s** Denim Skirt | **Seven Boot Lane** Falcon Suede Espadrilles in Grey* | **Topshop** Straw Boater | Vintage Leather Belt | Straw Bag (bought in Saint-Paul de Vence) | **Retrosuperfuture** Paloma Sunglasses in Matte Black* | **Larsson & Jennings** Liten Watch c/o **Farfetch*** | **Lucy Williams x Missoma** Gold Graduated Fang Necklace* | **Gemporia** 9k Yellow Gold Stacker Ring* | **Gemporia** Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring*| **Brandts Jewellery** Daisy Ring in Rose Gold | **Sophie Wallgren** Marta Bracelet*

Besse-sur-Issole is a tiny village inland and west of the more chi-chi parts of the Côte d’Azur, the nearest town is Brignoles.

We stayed in a lovely chambres d’hôte with two wonderful hosts, one of which had once played piano for Nina Simone. We were lucky enough to hear him play one afternoon during our stay.

Walking through a gated entrance straight off the street, you find yourself in a large living-dining area and beyond that a huge quiet and charming garden with a lush saltwater pool. There’s also separate accommodation, known as the pigeon house, which we will definitely book next time we stay. They rebuilt it themselves from a couple of crumbling walls into a wonderful little maisonette.

The village is idyllic, there’s a small central square with a couple of good restaurants, an amazing bakery that makes some delicious sweet breakfast breads, a stunning lake and beautiful little cobbled streets in the older part of town.

Accommodation
L’Abri du Poet

Lunch With Bond at The Colombe d’Or

**IRO** Yante Broderie Anglais Dress | **ATP Atelier** Rosa Sandals in Black | **Ace & Tate** Sebastian Sunglasses in Bio Black* | **Lucy Williams x Missoma** Gold Graduated Fang Necklace* | **Missoma** Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold*

Hidden behind a large stone wall in the pretty little town of Saint-Paul de Vence is an iconic restaurant and hotel, the Colombe d’Or. As you walk in through its giant gated archway you are met by a giant thumb, the work of French sculptor César. Hung on its walls are paintings and illustrations by Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, Léger and Braque; centimetres from the pools edge is a giant Calder sculpture. Artists flocked to the Colombe d’Or from the 1920s through to the 1950s, where its owner Paul Roux would entertain them and in exchange for a piece of art would feed them and give them a bed for the night.

As I entered the courtyard I was struck by its beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Tables sit close together but with plants used tentatively here and there you are given your privacy. The waiting staff are kind and welcoming, there is no stuffiness here, even though the Colombe d’Or is a world-renowned restaurant and frequented by the likes of Madonna, Victoria Beckham, Jack Nicholson and Leonardo di Caprio. On the day we visited Roger Moore was also dinning on the terrace, I actually go to meet Bond!

The food was the best we had in the South of France and we ate a lot of very good food. The sea bass I ordered was exceptional and the crème caramel I had for dessert was just as I remembered it as a child. I can also highly recommend the house champagne, we were celebrating our wedding after-all.

Plenish Juice Cleanse Diary

This post was created in collaboration with Plenish.

In advance of my wedding I decided to try a juice cleanse. I didn’t take the decision lightly as I’ve always been wary that I might just be starving myself, and in the process slowing down my metabolism. Juices and cleanses have come a long way though, and when you’re drinking five juices and a nut milk each day starvation isn’t an option, trust me.

I often have problems with digestion and regularly suffer from bloating. I really wanted to give my digestive system a break from irritants so that on the day of the wedding I would feel more comfortable in my dress. I chose Plenish as they have a great reputation and have been recommended to me on many occasions. Their cold-pressed juices also taste much better than a lot I’ve tried.

I kept a diary each day so I could share my thoughts and experiences with you about their three-day Level 2 Cleanse.

Day 1

I woke up hungry on the first day of my cleanse, not a good sign when you know your day isn’t going to include any solid food (and mentally, that’s what makes me feel full up). I don’t usually have breakfast til 10.30am so I was relieved that the juices were delivered before then and I could get started straightaway. The juices arrive numbered 1-6 so that you know which order you should drink them in. Number 1 is called Lift, a mix of pear, cucumber, romaine, spinach, kale, basil and broccoli. It was not unpleasant and I was surprised to find that I didn’t feel hungry afterwards; I had expected to.

In addition to the cleanse I’ve been working out to the Spotebi exercises most mornings, to get toned before my wedding. This morning it was an arms & shoulders workout. I use the time between sets to catch-up on my emails.

As I didn’t start my juices til 10.30am I found myself drinking the rest almost back-to-back throughout the day, finishing one and then reaching for another within the hour.

By 6pm I was a little bit irritable and not the best person to be around. Wedding pressures, a busy weekend and no solid food all day can do that do a girl. I decided it might be in everyone’s interest to have some fresh, homemade soup. I made it with just a few carrots, beetroot and a clean veggie stock.

Day 2

I started my second day with a cup of hot water and some thick slices of lemon, kindly made by my other-half. This combination early in the morning is great for kick-starting the digestive system and cleansing the liver, it’s also anti-bacterial and anti-viral, whilst tasting good.

My day of juices again started with Lift which I sipped slowly whilst also doing a legs workout from Spotebi. I try to mix-up my workouts so no one area feels over worked and I allow the muscles to rest and rebuild in-between.

Calm, juice number 2 of the day is my absolute favourite for taste; a mix of pineapple, apple, mint and aloe vera. It feels soothing and with a touch of sweetness it kept me going.

I’m quite surprised by Kick, juice number 4, it’s a bit spicy and did actually give me a kick. I was feeling a bit sleepy around 3pm when I drank it and realised that soon after I was running around the house tidying up, not my usual behaviour at this time of the day. I definitely think I’ve found a much healthier option to my usual tea or coffee.

Day 3

I started the day with my usual hot water and lemon but took a break from exercise. It’s my last day of the three-day cleanse and I’m feeling pretty good, I’m looking forward to a proper meal but not as desperately as I thought I would.

I’m going to be running around town for a few meetings today, so it’ll be juice on the run for me. My bag is heavy with the three juices (2, 3 & 4) I’m going to need whilst I’m out.

I’m back home and it’s time for juice number 5, Fuel. It’s not my favourite for flavour as it tastes very green but green is good right!

Everyday I’ve been looking forward to number 6, Build, which is a nut milk rather than a juice. It’s thicker than the juices which makes it feel more substantial. I also quite like the taste, it’s not something for everyday but I’m certainly going to keep this one as a regular thing, maybe instead of dinner on days when I’ve had a big lunch.

With my three-day cleanse over I’m now on a mix of food and juices in smaller quantities. Back to my usual breakfast, porridge made with almond milk, agave syrup and blueberries. The oats are good for lowering cholesterol; almond milk is low in calories and dairy-free; agave syrup has a low glycemic index which means it doesn’t give you a sudden rush of sugar; and blueberries contain anti-oxidants.

I’m going to be watching what I eat from now until the wedding, so as not to undo all the good my cleanse has done. I was wary when I started but I’m not any more, I will definitely be taking part in another Plenish juice cleanse soon.

Postcards From The Camargue

**UNIQLO** Broderie Anglaise Top in Black* | **Mango** Buttoned Denim Skirt | **ATP Atelier** Rosa Sandals in Black | **Ace & Tate** Sebastian Sunglasses in Bio Black* | **Larsson & Jennings** Liten Watch* | **Missoma** Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold* | **Missoma x Lucy Williams** Gold Graduated Fang Necklace* | **CF Concept** Tusk Necklace in Gold

We started our honeymoon in The Camargue, an area of France defined by its salt plains and marshlands; famous for its white horses, flamingoes and bulls. The Camargue is very different to anywhere else I’ve been in France, once affluent due to the salt industry, which sadly is not what it once was. There are beautiful houses but many of the villages are a little like ghost towns, even in mid-summer. The beaches however are incredibly busy.

For us, it was the perfect spot to unwind after the wedding and parties we had at the château. I was quite ill at the time with a chest infection which I still haven’t managed to shake. The peace and quiet allowed us both to readjust to a more relaxed state of mind and set the mood for the rest of our trip.

Accommodation

Chambre d’Hôtes en Camargue 4 (via Airbnb)

Pre-Wedding Chillout

**Custommade** Leanna Gingham Shirt* | **Hush** Denim Shorts* | **Ace & Tate** Sebastian Sunglasses in Bio Black* | **Larssen & Jennings** Liten Watch c/o **Farfetch***

Before the wedding I spent a few day relaxing with friends a beautiful spot just outside Grasse. It was an opportunity to read a book, swim and unwind before the big day. I knew I still had a few things to do when I arrived at the chateau so I found it quite difficult to fully relax but taking in the beautiful views from such a stunning old bastide certainly helped a lot.

I slathered on the sun cream and spent every hour of every day lying by the pool. I had to be careful as my wedding dress was backless but after a few days in the sun I had a good base tan and felt as relaxed as I could be. I was so happy just walking through the gardens there, which had been planted with 400 year old olive trees, wisteria, bougainvillea, oleander and agapanthus (a few of my favourites). There were so many beautiful touches wherever you looked.

The farmhouse was once owned by Sir Norman Foster and had been beautifully restored on the outside and elegantly decorated throughout. I would have loved to show you the inside too but as this is my friend’s family home I chose not to share any photos of the interior, so you’ll just have to trust me when I say it was simply stunning (house goals for the future).

My Wedding Day Make-Up Guide

Eyes

**Estée Lauder** Pure Color Envy in 02 Ivory Power* | **Anastasia Beverly Hills** Brow Wiz in Soft Brown | **Chanel** Le Crayon Khôl in Noir | **Estée Lauder** Pure Color Envy in 04 Rebel Metal* | **Sephora** PRO Allover Shadow Brush in Large 12 | **MAC** Pro Longwear Paint Pot in Painterly | **Sensai** 38° Mascara in Separating & Lengthening | **Estée Lauder** Bronze Goddess Summer Glow EyeShadow Palette*

Base

Blush & Bronze

Lips

Three months ago I started to take a vested interest in make-up, with a wedding on the horizon and no make-up artist, I needed to learn what worked for me. I’ve never worn a lot of make-up as I’ve never felt that comfortable with it. Whenever I’ve tried a stronger look I feel ridiculous and I’m convinced everyone’s staring at me when I do. However, my everyday look – which consists of Jouer Luminizing Moisturiser Tint, Kevyn Aucoin Creamy Glow, a couple of subtle MAC eyeshadows and Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner – just wasn’t going to cut it on my wedding day. I needed help!

I met with the team at Estée Lauder, who showed me some new tricks and gave me lots of lovely new products to try. Their Pure Color Envy eyeshadow palettes are quite possibly the best I’ve come across, the shades are natural and work well with my own skin tone. And, their Bronze Goddess Summer Glow EyeShadow Palette is great for a subtle holiday look, with shimmery, fresh shades. Estée Lauder’s Genuine Glow Blushing Creme For Lips And Cheeks is a great multi-use product, it gives a natural flush to the cheeks but equally works well on lips to enhance their colour without looking obvious. At first I didn’t get on so well with their Illuminating Perfecting Primer until their make-up artist Emma showed me how to use it as a highlighter on the tops of your cheeks. Apply a small amount to the soft fleshy bit of your hand just at the base of your thumb (the thumb pad), then rub your pads together before patting it to the tops of your cheekbones. It applies it evenly and not too heavily.

I was struggling to find the right base and was beginning to think that foundation wasn’t for me and that I would never use anything other than a tinted moisturiser for the rest of my days. All the foundations I tried made my skin feel caked in make-up. My skin is naturally a little bit dry and longwear formulas tend to suck up the moisture I do have in my skin, leaving any dry spots highlighted and my pores clearly visible; not a look anyone wants. For this reason, I tend to avoid using powders on my skin most of the time as they have a similar effect. However, if you do prefer to use a powder to set your make-up I have a great tip, spritz your skin with a face mist after you’ve dusted your T-zone with powder. I’ve found Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist is great for this or Omorovicza Queen of Hungary Mist. It takes away the granny face look you get with lots of powder.

With our wedding day looming I started to worry more and more about my make-up base and asked my friends about what they had used on their wedding days. One friend told me to avoid using anything with a high SPF as it can be quite reflective in photos and suggested trying a mix of Chanel Vitalumière Aqua with their Les Beiges for natural looking coverage. At the Chanel counters I visited in London they either didn’t have a sample suitable for my skin tone or wanted me to book in for a bridal make-up tutorial (at a cost). Another friend suggested MAC Face & Body, a water-based foundation that’s quite light but also long wearing. If I had been a little more confident about my skin and didn’t have a few little dark spots to cover this would have been great. It evens out subtle differences in tone but it wasn’t enough for me to feel confident on my wedding day. I’ll definitely be using it as an everyday foundation going forwards though when I want light coverage.

I took a break from my search for the perfect foundation and started looking for waterproof mascara. I’m such a softy and anything vaguely emotional can have me in floods of tears (the good kind). I needed a mascara that would stay put regardless of my strong emotions. After a search online I came across a recent report by Marie Claire. One brand that stood out was Sensai, reportedly used by none other than Kim Kardashian. (I have to admit ‘Keeping Up with the Kardashians’ is one of my guilty pleasures, it’s easy watching whilst I workout in the mornings.) Sensai make a mascara called 38°, it only comes off with water that’s at least 38°C. It works in the swimming pool (a bonus for the summer) and doesn’t run when you cry. There are two types, a separating and lengthening one, and a thickening one. I opted for the separating and lengthening one as my little lashes clump quite easily. Whilst at their counter in Harrods I decided to give their foundation a try too – in for a penny, in for a pound. Their make-up artist started with a primer (something else I’ve struggled with previously), Smoothing Water Make-Up Base, she told me it’s always best to use it on top of your moisturiser. It’s without doubt the best primer I’ve ever used on my skin. Sensai follow the concept of make-up Saho which “teaches that anyone can achieve flawless make-up by following a simple rule: “Veil + Colour”. Applying a veil of moisture followed by make-up will help keep your skin protected and beautiful through the long hours of the day, encouraging a healthy, natural radiance“. I then tested two of their foundations, their Cream Foundation felt too heavy so I tried their Fluid Foundation, bingo! This one gets a gold star from me, a first. I bought the mascara, left their counter at Harrods wearing the foundation and wore it for the rest of the day. I rarely make impulse purchases these days and I wanted to be sure it stood up to my needs before spending any money. Within the week I was back for both the Smoothing Water Make-Up Base and Fluid Foundation in two colours, my usual shade and a shade darker for when my skin’s tanned.

Knowing I was onto a good thing with Sensai I spoke to their PR team to find out more about the brand. They very kindly sent me a Bronzing Gel and Gel Brush to try. Once again a product I absolutely love, with a great applicator brush to match. If you want a warm natural glow that you can build up you will love this, it’s a wonderful fluid product with a cooling feel as you apply it with the brush.

For a little while I’ve been using a dark eyeshadow and an angled brush to fill-in my brows, there’s nothing wrong with this but I much prefer Anastasia Beverly Hills‘ Brow Whiz, the effect is much more subtle and easier to build up. I just kept forgetting to replace my old one but with the wedding coming up I had no excuse.

The only thing left to worry about were my lips. I’d read many good things about Charlotte Tilbury‘s make-up and their Lip Cheat Lip Liner in Pillow Talk was the main product I’d been meaning to try. It imitates the natural colour of your lips, allowing you to create a smooth lip line for use with almost any lipstick (it’s not ideal for red or dark lipsticks). I then applied a little of their K.I.S.S.I.N.G. Lipstick in Bitch Perfect and topped it with Beauté‘s Luminous Volume Gloss.

I was really pleased with my wedding day make-up. I’ll share some photos soon so you can see what it looked like altogether. If you’re not sure about what to use I would recommend spending some time trying products and asking for advice from your friends and make-up artists, reading articles and trying to identify which products work with your skin condition, texture and tone. Although frustrating at times, I have found that it’s been beneficial in the long run. I have products in my make-up bag now that I know work for me.

Please get in touch if you have any questions about the products I’ve mentioned or my experience.

Yoga At The Top of The Shard

This post was created in collaboration with Farfetch.

So much has happened over the last couple of months that I want to share with you. Please be patient with me whilst I slowly fill you in on all the details. I promise I will be sharing more about my wedding and our trip around France soon but first here’s an exciting morning I spent doing yoga with Farfetch.

Just before I disappeared off to France I was up very early one morning (6am), as I had been invited by Farfetch for an early morning yoga session with Yogasphere, at the very top of The Shard. At the time it was being built I freelanced at The Body Shop at their head office just below it but in all this time I’d never been up it or even in it. I’m such a Londoner in that I live in this incredible city and yet I’ve not visited many of its amazing sights. And the view from the top of The Shard is one sight you don’t want to miss. It’s sensational and left me lost for words, although that may have been down to it being about the time my alarm usually goes off.

Leo from Yogasphere gave us a full body stretch, just what I needed after all the strength training I’d been doing to tone up for the wedding. It felt really good to be back doing yoga again as I’ve had a little break from it – there are only so many hours in the day. Aside from teaching yoga classes at the top of the tallest building in the UK, Yogasphere plant ten trees for every person that takes a class with them; impressive, right, a sustainable yoga class.

I felt really invigorated by the class and even though it was still early and I hadn’t eaten a bite I felt very ready for the day. As we descended in the lift I suddenly felt my stomach and realised that food was a good idea. Which is about the time that the Farfetch girls let on that we were heading down to the Shangri-La for a private breakfast. It was such a lovely surprise to be greeted with a fresh fruit salad, an egg white omelette with asparagus and smoked salmon, and lots of little tasty nibbles. It was also a great opportunity to catch up with some of my friends in the industry and meet some new ones too.

Thank you so much Farfetch for spoiling me in the healthiest possible way.

AYR Wardrobe Essentials

This post was created in collaboration with AYR

I’ve written about AYR once before a little while back, they’re an independent American label with a love of timeless essentials that could easily rival my own. Think perfect pairs of jeans that fit well and feel amazing on, spaghetti strap silk camisoles that go with everything, chambray shirts for casual days and camel coats made from soft Italian camel hair. The fabrics and fits are some of the best I’ve come across which makes their designs not only incredible wardrobe essentials but excellent value for money.

The Skinny black jeans I’m wearing are a deep dark velvety black, exactly how I like them as I always feel immediately slimmer when they’re this dark. They’re super soft and, with 30% stretch recovery, they keep their shape. Even with the shape of denim changing all the time I still always return to a skinny cut.

A Weekend In Lucca

**Splendid** Long Sleeve Top in White* | **Isabel Marant Étoile** Lyne Wrap Skirt in Blue | **ATP Atelier** Rosa Sandals in Black | **CF Concept** Tusk Necklace in Gold | **Lucy Williams x Missoma** Gold Graduated Fang Necklace* | **Retrosuperfuture** Flat Top Sunglasses in Havana* | **Sophie Wallgren** Marta Bracelet in Gold* | **Gemporia** 9k Yellow Gold Stacker Ring* | **Gemporia** Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring*

**Topshop** Natural Straw Boater Hat | Stripe Scarf (old)

Before our wedding in France we spent a wonderful weekend in Italy. Two very good friends of ours had chosen to get married there in a little town just outside Lucca in Tuscany. I don’t need an excuse to go to Italy, it’s a country I love very much, but their wedding was a fantastic reason to return. Its breathtaking landscapes, delicious food, great wine and friendly people will always see me coming back for more.

Having had some pretty disappointing summer weather in London, it was a great opportunity to wear some pieces from my new summer wardrobe. I bought a few Isabel Marant Étoile pieces this summer and I’d been dying to wear them. This skirt is a little shorter than I would usually wear and probably not that appropriate for London but in the Tuscan heat it was perfect.

Accommodation

Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa

Our Wedding Venue, Château de Massillan

I’m really sorry if you’ve been visiting my blog and thought to yourself, ‘nothing new here’. Sorry to disappoint, I’m currently in France preparing for our wedding. I might be a little MIA for a few weeks but if I get the chance I will update you when I can.

In the meantime, I thought I would share some photos of Château de Massillan, the beautiful chateau where we are going to be getting married. It has a courtyard in the centre, a pond with koi carp, a stunning potager (kitchen garden) with chickens, and even a moat! It’s surrounded by vineyards, one of which has sold us all our wine for the day.

Not only is it a stunning location for our big day but the owner Didier Pérréol has a passion for sustainability. Everything from the materials used in its recent refurbishments to the ‘Biologique’ wine they serve, has been chosen for its low impact on the environment. Their exceptional chef, Frédéric de Bourlout uses organic, locally-produced, sustainable, seasonal produce in everything he and his team create in the kitchen. As you can imagine, I’m so excited about our wedding breakfast.

There isn’t much time now until the big day. At the moment, I’m not nervous just super excited to be marrying my best friend, with so many of our wonderful friends and family present to witness and celebrate with us.

Summer In The City

**Armor-Lux** Breton Sailor Sweater* | **Closed** Pedal Position Blue Denim Jeans* | **Danielle Foster** Charlie Box Bag in Khaki | **ATP Atelier** Rosa Sandals in Black | **Ace & Tate** Sebastian Sunglasses in Bio Black* | **Nixon** The Time Teller* | **Gemporia** Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring* | **Gemporia** 9k Yellow Gold Stacker Ring* | **Missoma** Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold* | **Lucy Williams x Missoma** Gold Graduated Fang Necklace*

If you follow me on Instagram, I apologise if you’ve already seen some of these photos. We shot them a little while ago but I’ve been travelling around and haven’t had the chance to post them until now.

A Breton sweater is a timeless classic and this one from Armor-Lux is made with 100% pure wool; some of the wool ones I’ve tried have been be a bit wiry and stiff but this one is neither, it’s soft and very comfortable. I’m going to be taking it with me to France for throwing on after a day at the beach when the sun has gone down and you start to feel a chill after a day of salt and sand. I can’t wait!

I live in denim and recently discovered a German brand called Closed, they specialise in denim but you can actually buy your whole wardrobe from them; I’ve already spied some gorgeous winter coats on their site. They manufacture everything in Italy so as you can imagine the quality is excellent. I have a couple of pairs of their jeans and they’re made with a soft denim that has quite a lot of give, I’d go down a size if you plan on buying some, as mine are quite loose.

Park(a)life

This post was created in collaboration with Parka London

**Parka London** Cecile Women’s Classic Dry Wax Parka* | **C/meo Collective** Golden Age Top in Ivory* | **Hush** Denim Shorts* | **Cambridge Satchel Company** Saddle Bag in Black* | **Robert Clergerie** Vicolek Lace-Up Raffia Wedge Derbies | **Retrosuperfuture** Flat Top Sunglasses in Havana | **Missoma** Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold | **CF Concept** Tusk Necklace in Gold | **Gemporia** Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring | **Gemporia** 9k Yellow Gold Stacker Ring | **Nixon** The Time Teller Watch

With Glastonbury at the weekend, we’re clearly well into festival season now. I’m wearing a few of my favourite festival pieces here; a parka, denim shorts and a shoulder bag (that fits all my essentials). If you think you’re going to be lucky enough to see some sun, a camisole is a must.

My coat is from Parka London who specialise in parkas, they have a brilliant selection of designs both in the summer and winter. This one is so beautifully made, I was really impressed when it arrived, as I’ve not come across the same level of quality in a parka before.

I’m hoping to make a cool flower crown with these beautiful giant hydrangeas.

NUORI Fresh Skincare

NUORI Vital Foaming Cleanser* | NUORI Vital Facial Cream*

So many people now question what goes into the food they eat, they want to know where it’s come from, where it was made and how. So why aren’t we asking the same thing of our skincare? Beauty advertising is so good that we are willing to believe that anything we use will keep us looking youthful.

Since the beginning of the year I’ve been looking at how I can live in a better way, and with that, how what I buy impacts the world. I’m careful about the brands I choose to work with and how I use my blog to showcase brands. I look for brands that are doing things in a more considered and sustainable way. Beauty for me is such a difficult one to fathom, using natural and organic products isn’t always the best for the planet or your skin, and sometimes an ingredient created in a lab is better for both. Whilst doing some research I came across NUORI, a Danish skincare brand, launched in September last year, that create fresh skincare products.

NUORI is what you get when a new brand challenges an established industry to think outside the box. They create each of their fresh skincare products in small batches every 12 weeks. Over time active ingredients breakdown with standard skincare products, with NUORI their products are at 100% efficacy. They use 100% natural ingredients, without any synthetic preservatives. Their products are free from parabens, synthetic colour, synthetic fragrances, mineral oil, petrolatum, PEGs, sulfates, MEA, DEA, TEA, polypropylene glycol, phthalates, and silicones. Their packaging minimises exposure to air, light, and bacteria, before and during use.

For over a month I’ve been using their Vital Foaming Cleanser and Vital Facial Cream. Over that time they have remained as effective as the day I started using them and look, smell and feel exactly the same. The Vital Foaming Cleanser is a rich creamy foam that cleans without stripping, you apply it to dry skin and then rinse with warm water. It’s an effective cleanser that I will continue to use it until the pump runs dry. The other product I’ve been using, their Vital Facial Cream, contains hyaluronic acid and squalane, two ingredients I’m currently obsessed with. They’re both great for improving the levels of moisture in the skin, hyaluronic acid replaces lost moisture and squalane helps to keep it there. I use a lot of moisturising products morning and night, a serum, an oil, a moisturiser and an SPF booster. The lightweight cream has become part of my morning regime and I’ve found it very effective.

If you would like to try their products or find out more about NUORI, visit their site.

Feeling Pumped

**Bon Label** Tie Sweater in Marl Grey* | **Closed** Pedal Position Blue Denim Jeans* | **Jimmy Choo** Rebel Shoulder Bag | **Ace & Tate** Sebastian Sunglasses in Bio Black* | **Whistles** Cornel Suede Pointed Pumps in Black | **Missoma** Gold Engravable Initial Necklace* | **Sophie Wallgren** Marta Bracelet in Gold* | **Renné** Halo Bangle in Silver*

Sweatshirts have always been considered a casual wardrobe item but recently I’ve seen them elevated to a new level. Both this season and last, Joseph featured beautiful separates in soft jersey which we can’t seem to get enough of. Comfortable but chic these pieces have changed the way we think of the humble sweatshirt.

‘the brand exists to provide women with luxury everyday pieces which are effortless, interesting and chic‘
Designer, Linda Smyth

Recently, I discovered a lovely Australian brand called Bon Label. I’ve since collaborated with them to show you how I would style a couple of pieces from their new collection, their tie sweater and sweater dress (as seen in this post). I love the way they’ve looked at the basic design and creating something much more unique. A simple tie in the same grey jersey fabric and a curved, unfinished hem make it a much more feminine piece.

A Few (More) Wardrobe Essentials

**Armor-Lux** Cap Sizun Wool Peacoat in Navy* | **Bon Label** Sweater Dress in Marl Grey* | **Common Projects** Original Achilles Low | **Baia** Drawstring Bucket Bag in Duck Egg Blue* | **& Other Stories** Leather Obi Belt | **Saint James** Marine Cap | **CF Concept** Tusk Necklace in Gold | **Nixon** The Time Teller Watch* | **Brandts Jewellery** Daisy Ring in Rose Gold | **Gemporia** Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring*

I may be starting to sound like a broken record but I do love good wardrobe essentials, classic pieces that I know I’ll keep for years to come; it’s my thing. It came about when I realised that I had lots of clothes but couldn’t easily combine them to create outfits I wanted to wear. I decided to look for items that would be more versatile. When I buy a new item I challenge myself to envisage at least three outfits I could create, combining it with pieces I already own, before I allow myself to buy it.

In this outfit I’m wearing a few pieces I would consider essentials, a grey sweatshirt dress, a navy peacoat and white leather trainers. Each piece is well-made from good quality materials. If you’re looking for essentials that you’re going to wear regularly they need to be made to last.

Little Black (Summer) Dress

Grey Fedora from Portobello Road | **Prism** Cat-Eye Sunglasses in Bronze | **Hush** Evangeline Dress in Black* | **Common Projects** Original Achilles Low | Straw Basket Bag (from Italy) | **Missoma** Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold* | **Renné** Halo Bangle in Silver* | **Sophie Wallgren** Marta Bracelet in Gold*

I’ve recently started to focus on the little black dress section of my wardrobe. Every magazine, style icon and blog has told me over and over again how important the little black dress is to your wardrobe. I’ve had many but as my style has evolved I’ve let them go and only now started to think about what a great essential it is. I have a couple of new ones, this one by Hush and another by Second Female (which I’ll feature soon).

My style is always about balance, I don’t like to look too girly as it doesn’t feel comfortable to me but that doesn’t mean I want to dress like a boy either. I look for ways to create a neutral look that balances feminine and masculine details. Wearing trainers with a dress is something I do quite often. I live in trainers since I’m always running across town for various events and meetings, and heels aren’t practical. I also try to only carry a small shoulder bag most of the time so carrying a pair of heels around is an extra effort I try to avoid.

Spring To Summer

**ME+EM** Leather Bomber Jacket in Soft Mink* | **UNIQLO** Breton Stripe Long-Sleeved Dress | **AYR** Sleeveless Shirt in White)* | **Baia** Leather Bucket Bag in Duck Egg Blue* | **Diemme** Garda Slip-ons* | **Ace & Tate** Sebastian Sunglasses in Bio Black* | **Nixon** The Time Teller Watch* | **Brandts Jewellery** Daisy Ring in Rose Gold | **Gemporia** Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring* | **Sophie Wallgren** Marta Bracelet in Gold*

Transitioning from spring to summer can be difficult, you leave the house when the sun’s out and it’s a rather pleasant 18°C and then the next thing you know it’s down to 12°C before you’ve even reached lunchtime. Choosing the right layers and fabrics is important for getting your trans-seasonal wardrobe right. A leather jacket over a summer dress is one easy way. Leather can be light but warm and the beautiful taupe colour of this leather bomber by ME+EM is perfect for a summer wardrobe.

Cotton is great for layering, it’s breathable so if it does heat up you’ll still feel fresh. I avoid synthetic fabrics 90% of the time, I never feel very comfortable in them and this I find is especially important in warmer weather when they can make you feel clammy. So you won’t be surprised to find that both the shirt and dress I’m wearing here are cotton.

Davines NOUNOU Haircare

Davines is an Italian haircare brand. They started out as a research laboratory, producing high-end hair care products for renowned cosmetic companies worldwide. Then, in 1992, they decided to focus on producing their own products, under the Davines brand. Later adding skincare to the brand in 1996.

Davines products are designed, formulated and manufactured at their headquarters and laboratories in Parma, Italy. They are made with a combination of natural and synthetic ingredients (used to stabilise their products).

“BY CREATING BEAUTY SUSTAINABLY, WE ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO TAKE CARE OF THEMSELVES, OF THE ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH THEY LIVE & WORK, AND OF THE THINGS THEY LOVE.”
Davide Bollati, President

I’ve found their products incredibly effective on my highlighted hair. I’ve been using their NOUNOU range for a little while and love them! The shampoo is gentle and the conditioner leaves my hair soft, nourished and manageable, and they smell amazing. Both products use Fiaschetto tomatoes which are full of antioxidants and Vitamin C, to help restore and invigorate the hair. Davines are transparent about their ingredients and you can trace the tomatoes back to the farm of Mr. Mario di Latte in Serranova, di Carovigno, Brindisi; a member of the Slow Food Presidia.

Davines NOUNOU Shampoo | Davines NOUNOU Conditioner

Walking Tall In Marylebone

**Samsøe & Samsøe** Lisa Jeans* | **Topshop** MA1 Bomber in Navy | **Second Female** Eileen Stripe Shirt | **Triwa** Clyde Sunglasses in Havana | **PB 0110** AB 21 Shoulder Bag in Navy | **CF Concept** Tusk Necklace in Gold | **La Redoute** Chunky Sole Brogue*

There are a few things in my wardrobe that I continue to buy season after season, pieces that are good, timeless basics. One of which is a blue and white stripe shirt and the other is a good pair of blue jeans. They’re two things I wear all the time and find great satisfaction in discovering new versions.

The Second Female stripe shirt in the outfit above has a pale blue stripe and is made from a cotton-linen textured fabric which holds its shape. It’s such a classic and could be worn in so many ways. One of my favourite ways is with a pair of blue jeans, and my current favourite jeans are these Samsøe & Samsøe straight-leg mid-rise ones. I love the fit, the straight cut with a slight taper and the little bit of distressing below the knee.

Less Layers, More Light

**Second Female** Sao Coat in Grey* | **ME+EM** Silk Shirt with Piping* | **Paige** Verdugo Skinny Black Jeans* | **MICHAEL Michael Kors** Saylor Ankle Boots in Black* | **Danielle Foster** Charlie Box Bag in Khaki | **Jil Sander** Sunglasses in Grey) | **Missoma** Gold Engravable Initial Necklace* | **Lucy Williams x Missoma** Gold Graduated Fang Necklace* | **CF Concept** Tusk Necklace in Gold | **Gemporia** Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring* | **Brandts Jewellery** Daisy Ring

I love catching the late afternoon light, it’s my favourite time to shoot, when you’re bathed in a warm glow. It makes both your skin and hair glow.

With the weather improving by the day, I’m slowly peeling off the layers. There are no jumpers in this post, just a beautiful cream silk blouse from ME+EM, under my new oversize grey coat. I’ve been looking for a great pale grey marl coat for a while and I’m so pleased with this one, it’s soft and warm, and just the right length. I love being able to wear less layers come this time of year although six months from now you can guarantee I’ll be getting excited about how to layer things again.

These skinny jeans are a regular in my wardrobe, rain or shine. I’ve had them for ages and though they’re not the velvety black they once were, they’re still by favourite skinny black jeans.

Let The Sun Shine

**Second Female** Kayser Suede Biker Jacket in Cognac* | **Samsøe & Samsøe** Kinna Top in Navy | **Samsøe & Samsøe** Judah Skirt in Navy | **PB 0110** AB21 Shoulder Bag in Navy | **Triwa** Clyde Sunglasses in Havana | **Adidas Originals** Stan Smith Trainers c/o MonShowroom*

It’s almost time to get those legs out, the sun has been trying its best to show its face, which means it’s time for me to start using a little St Tropez Gradual Tan! The clocks changed today so officially it’s British Summer Time and soon we’ll be staying out later in London and enjoying a drink or two with friends in the evenings (bring it on). We’re an unsociable lot in the darker months and then everything transforms here as soon as we have the light and warmer temperatures.

I’ve gone for an in-between look (a warm suede jacket and navy co-ord) to wean myself out of my jeans. I find a leather or suede biker jacket is perfect at this time of the year, it’s a great piece for layering. I will quite often layer a coat and biker jacket so I can discard the knits and wear a silk shirt or t-shirt instead.

Daytime Pyjamas?

**Triwa** Clyde Sunglasses in Havana | **Topshop** MA1 Bomber in Navy Blue | **Samsøe & Samsøe** Sanella Sweater in Cream | **The White T-Shirt Co.** Long Sleeve Round Neck T-Shirt in White* | **Samsøe & Samsøe** Tuersen Wide-Leg Trousers in Red & White Stripe | **Adidas Originals** Stan Smith Trainers via MonShowroom* | **PB 0110** AB21 Shoulder Bag in Navy | **Littionary** Tiny Dot Stud Earringsin Gold | **CF Concept** Tusk Necklace in Gold

The closest I’ve come so far to the pyjama trend are these amazing wide-led trousers from Samsøe & Samsøe; they’re soft, loose and super comfy. Lots of friends have asked me my thoughts on the pyjama look, most have said that they don’t really get it, I’m still on the fence. I love a classic navy silk pyjama shirt with white piping (perfect over jeans) and I love a co-ord (a two-piece in the same fabric and print) so that would suggest that I’d have fully embraced the daytime pyjama look by now. I probably would wear it but only in a particular scenario and in my own way.

Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum

My skin if often quite dehydrated, this is due to a combination of my genetics and an inability to manage to drink the daily recommended amount of water the body requires (around 2 litres). Every time I have a facial the facialist confirms this. So in an effort to combat the dehydration, I use a lot of moisturising products.

Lately, I’ve been trying out a new product, Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum. Its active ingredient is sodium hyaluronate, the salt of hyaluronic acid. Now for the science bit, it has a smaller molecular size than hyaluronic acid which means it can penetrate deeper into the skin. It’s been designed to target fine lines, dullness and dehydration. Those with sensitive skin can use it too, it can even be used on the delicate eye area.

I’ve been using Pure Hyaluronic Serum as the first step in my beauty regime, after cleansing. I then layer on an oil based serum and a moisturiser, both morning and night. It may sound like a lot of products but I let each one sink in a little before adding the next layer; the Pure Hyaluronic Serum sinks in quickly. I can honestly say that my skin has been looking and feeling much better for this routine.