Tag: Otiumberg

How To Build A Sustainable Wardrobe

What we choose to wear can have a significant effect on the environment and I believe we all have a part to play in protecting the planet for future generations. By choosing your wardrobe carefully you can help make a difference.

1. Wear Your Clothes

Chances are you already own some amazing clothes. The most sustainable wardrobe is the one you already own as long as you wear it regularly. Challenge yourself to come up with new ways of wearing your clothes and accessories. I have a couple of sections on my ‘Style’ Pinterest board where I save photos of outfits for autumn/winter and spring/summer that are made up of items similar to the ones I own.

2. Choose Well

Only buy what you truly love and know you will want to wear frequently. If you choose well, you should be able to wear an item at least 30 times, if not more. Don’t buy something just because, at first glance, you think it looks nice or you saw it on someone else whose style you admire; don’t make a panic purchase. Give yourself time to consider how you’ll wear it with the things you own. If you can’t think of at least three ways you can style it, don’t buy it.

3. Buy Well Made

Look for natural fibres because they tend to wear and wash better than most synthetic materials; they also allow the skin to breathe. Good garment construction is also important, you want your clothes to last and if they’re badly made they won’t. If you’re unsure, check the quality of the seams and how well the buttons are sewn on (if there are any).

4. Only Buy What You Need

Most of the time we don’t need another coat, another pair of shoes, another pair of jeans, etc. If you choose well and buy well made then you are even less likely to need more.

5. Buy Timeless Designs

You’ll never regret it. These items never go out of fashion and often turn up in new trends anyway.

Plus, it’s worth it for the investment alone; if you do decide you no longer want an item, there’s likely to be a market for you to sell it on.

6. Clothes That Fit

How well an item fits will usually determines how many times an item is worn. If it feels uncomfortable, you’re probably not going to relax all day and, the next time you put that item on, feel reluctant to wear it again; another reason it’s important not to panic buy.

On the other hand, if you’re wearing something that fits you well, you’ll feel good about yourself and how others see you.

7. Take Care of Your Clothes

If you want to prolong the length of use of your clothes you need to treat them with care. Wash them according to their labels, you can always drop the temperature (but never raise it). Use a detergent that is eco-friendly and reduce unnecessary and damaging chemicals in our water systems. I use Ecover or Kinn, both are made with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients and still leave my clothes clean and fresh.

Mend holes, damaged seams and hems. There are plenty of tutorials online if you’re not sure how. You could consider the Japanese practice of Sashiko, if you want to add character. If you’re not comfortable mending your things yourself, get in touch with an alterations and repairs agency.

8. Secondhand & Vintage

It goes without saying that there are a lot of unworn clothes in the world, some that have never been worn at all. Secondhand and vintage clothes are often more affordable than the newly made. Though often associated with bright, cheaply made, synthetic clothes from the 60s and 70s; I’ve bought a beautiful wool jumper from Margaret Howell via eBay and a classic Belstaff jacket from a secondhand store in London. You need to think about exactly what you want/need and not deviate.

TOAST have recently started a clothes-swapping initiative called TOAST Circle. Customers can bring in items from previous seasons and swap them for other worn pieces.

9. Buy Locally Made

Supporting local artisans that produce goods using local materials means they are made with a low carbon footprint. It gives the brand the option to make-to-order, reducing deadstock. It’s also beneficial to the local economy.

Bramble Green Knitwear Aran Sweater | Baukjen Grandad-Collar Shirt in White* | Saltspin Radium Mid-Wash Mom Jean* | PB 0110 AB 52 Tote in Black* | G.H. Bass & Co. Weejuns Penny Loafers in Black* | Laura-Adèle Zodiac Wheel Medallion Necklace* | Otiumberg Small Graduated Hoops

Other things to consider…

Look for organic or Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) cotton. Less water is used in the farming process, the cotton seeds are not genetically modified and no chemicals or pesticides are used to grow them. This is better for the farm workers and pickers, better for the ground that the cotton is grown in, better for the local water supply and ecosystem and (I believe) better for your skin.

The OEKO-TEX registered trademark lets you know about fabrics that are made responsibly. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) lets you know about fabrics that have been made with a minimum of 70% organic fibres.

Make sure the brands you buy from ensure their wool is mulesing-free. It’s a painful practice that involves removing a strip of skin from the buttocks of the sheep to prevent a parasitic infection called flystrike. It’s especially common with Merino sheep.

Try to avoid polyester or nylon, unless it is recycled or vintage. Neither is biodegradable and both are thought to contribute to microplastics found in our oceans. Buy a Guppyfriend washing bag to reduce your impact.

Look for brands that are visibly working towards becoming more sustainable in their practices. They offer a lot of information on their websites about what they stand for, what they are doing and what they are working towards doing in the future.

For special events consider renting something from By Rotation, HURR, Front Row, My Wardrobe HQ

The Middle Months of Pregnancy

It was around month five or six that I really started to notice how much my body had begun to change. It was depressing to look in my wardrobe, at first, as I felt as though I had nothing to wear. The best thing I did was go through, try on and separate out the items that did still fit.

Months five and six were the toughest for me, in terms of how I felt about my body. Seeing my bump grow was amazing but I felt completely outside of my comfort zone when it came to the rest of my body. The lack of movement and the excessive sweet tooth I had in the early days had caught up with me and I felt bigger all over, bigger than I have ever been before. I ate healthily but was still not getting out as much as I would have liked to, due to a persisting lack of energy.

I’ve always had a complicated relationship with my body, feeling that it’s never quite how I’d like it to be, regardless of what I do. In the second trimester I felt further from that ideal than ever before and it’s this lack of control that I found hardest to cope with. I got stricter with my diet, making sure I ate with nutrition in mind, rather than whatever I fancied in the moment. Everyone loves to tell you when you’re pregnant that “it’s okay, you’re eating for two” or that “you should eat whatever you like”; I don’t agree with this. I feel like this is the best time to focus on getting as many vitamins and minerals in your diet as you can, and eating as healthily as possible. At the end of the day, I’m growing a human being and I want to give them the best chance of being healthy and strong. That doesn’t mean I’ve not reached for the odd slice of cake and I’ve definitely started to like chocolate a lot more (only it’s got to be good quality and just two squares at a time, mind) but I’ve also got into the habit of having an apple most days and have found healthier alternatives to the sweet things, like homemade fruit and seed bars, and banana bread which I’ve made using coconut sugar.

Twist & Tango Naomi Sweater in Navy Blue* | Great Plains Summer Scribble Shirt Dress* | PB 0110 AB 10 Shoulder Bag in Red* | Air & Grace Cherub Trainers in White* | Otiumberg Graduated Hoops in Gold | 88&Cloudless Joy Mini-Star Necklace in Gold* | Ace & Tate Heather Sunglasses in Latte*

It was towards the end of the sixth month that I finally started to gain more energy. Eager to get back to normality, I quickly booked in meetings, shoots and press events; only I took on too much, too soon. A full day in town resulted in a full day of doing nothing but recovering the next day, sometimes for two days. I listened to my body and learnt to take things more slowly, On the up side, my skin has finally settled down and I have started to get the pregnancy glow everyone talks about.

Spring Essentials With A Baby Bump

It’s the time of year when denim jackets take centre stage in many of our wardrobes. This is no coincidence, it’s a piece of outerwear that’s incredibly versatile, as well as being lightweight. Plus, you can layer it under a coat on chillier days. The denim jacket is without question one of my spring wardrobe essentials. I particularly love this workman style one from Parka London, for me it has a bit more edge than a classic western cut and looks a bit smarter. I’ve had it since last Autumn and have been wearing it layered, up until now. It’s not been designed for maternity but unless it’s cold outside I’ve found it doesn’t really matter.

Good classic shirts have become even more essential to me since the start of my pregnancy. With so much stretch jersey on offer to pregnant women it can all start to feel a bit too casual. Don’t get me wrong, stretch jersey has been a life saver when it comes to comfort but finding ways to still feel like I’ve made an effort is important to me and maintaining my sanity. I’ve had this ME+EM soft blue chambray shirt since the beginning, and due to its masculine cut and loose comfortable fit it has been a staple over the last few months. It’s a UK size 12 (my standard size pre-pregnancy for tops) and is probably only just reaching its limit now, at 7 months pregnant.

Parka London Grace Denim Jacket* | ME+EM Soft Cotton Chambray Shirt in Light Blue* | ME+EM Crop Palazzo Pants in Black Jersey* | PB 0110 AB 1 Tote in Natural Leather* | Air & Grace Cherub Sneakers in White Leather* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Otiumberg Gold Graduated Hoops

ME+EM have been making these jersey cropped wide-leg trousers since I first discovered the brand several seasons ago, so I’m sure they’re one of their best-sellers. I can tell you that you won’t find a more comfortable pair, pregnant or not. And again, these are not designed specifically for pregnancy, they just happen to work really well when you are. They keep their shape well and after several washes are still nice and black.

Pop of Colour

It’s funny how just one thing can make such a difference to your look. Adding a pop of colour can really give an outfit that extra oomph. I’ve never been that confident about wearing a red lip (although I’d love to). I always feel rather self-conscious about it smudging, wearing off, becoming uneven, bleeding; it’s all such a quandary for me. However, I’ve found other ways of adding a bit of colour, like this gorgeous little PB 0110 shoulder bag, I love the raspberry red, the first image shows the true colour, in the others the light makes it look a bit paler than it actually is. It’s quite a rich red that I think is rather timeless, along with the minimal design. As with all PB 0110 bags, the craftsmanship is just so beautiful. Size-wise this style (the AB 10) fits my mobile, keys, hand cream, lip balm and sunglasses all quite easily.

Subtly, I’ve co-ordinated my bag and blazer, there’s not just the fine red lines running through the check of the fabric but a red grosgrain ribbon side stripe that runs down each side, under the arm. I love this detail, it’s become quite a signature for ME+EM to include a stripe and it really works for me.

ME+EM Grosgrain Trim Checked Blazer* | ME+EM Raw Edge Silk Oversized Tee in Soft White* | ME+EM Crop Palazzo Pant in Black* | PB 0110 AB 10 Shoulder Bag* | Air & Grace Cherub Trainers in White* | Otiumberg Graduated Hoops in Gold | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Cate & Nelson No. 165 Watch*

Cooler Spring Nights

Spring isn’t always that warm in England, it gets brighter and the days get longer but warm sunny days don’t always equal warm evenings. When the cooler temperatures descend upon us I usually throw on a jumper, as I can feel the cold quite easily. When it comes to knitwear, there’s nothing quite like a cashmere jumper, super soft and effective at keeping out a chill, and if looked after correctly will last you many years. I’ve been wearing this 100% cashmere jumper from ME+EM whenever it’s chilly. It’s fairly lightweight (so ideal for this time of year) and the pale cream colour feels nice and fresh for spring. I’ve been investing in cream items quite a lot recently, as it’s such an easy colour to work with.

ME+EM Longline Cocoon Cashmere Jumper in Cream* | ME+EM Crop Palazzo Pant in Black* | PB 0110 AB 52 Tote in Black* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Cate & Nelson No. 165 Watch* | Littionary 14k Tiny Gold Dot Stud | Dinny Hall Bijou Star Stud in Gold* | Otiumberg Small Gold Graduated Hoops

I’ve been living in these soft jersey cropped palazzo pants since I got pregnant. They’re not a maternity style but as they have a roll top waistband, similar to some maternity pieces I’ve tried on, they’ve been a valuable addition to my current wardrobe. They fitted me comfortably before I had a big bump, they’re still really comfortable now I do, and I know they’ll work for me after my bump has gone. They’re a regular size 10 which makes me feel good as not many of my clothes are at the moment and although size doesn’t matter it does help, mentally, when you feel like you’re just getting bigger and bigger.

Hoopla

Otiumberg Gold Graduated Hoops | Normann CopenhagenMoon Tray in Black* | Monica Vinader Fiji Mini Hoop Earrings* | Otiumberg Small Gold Graduated Hoops | Otiumberg Yellow Gold Huggie Hoop | Murmur Rare Earth Candle*

Gold hoop earrings are in the spotlight once again but for me they’re a classic style that will forever be relevant. Large hoops are the perfect solution when you want to elevate a simple outfit, like a classic white shirt and black trousers. I also find that small hoops are a good everyday alternative to studs. As I have a few piercings in each ear, I like to layer a couple of different sizes.

I started wearing only gold jewellery a little while back. I’d become bored of opening my jewellery box only to find my silver pieces looking tarnished and, frankly, unappealing. Fortunately, I have the sort of skin tone which allows me to wear either. So I made the switch over to gold plated or gold vermeil silver pieces (never brass, unless they’re really big designs) and, whenever I can, I’ll opt for solid gold. Obviously, there’s a big cost involved with buying solid gold jewellery so I only buy it when it’s an investment piece that I can guarantee I will wear for many years. And the great thing about it is if I become bored with the style I can always have it melted down and create a new piece.

I’ve been buying a lot of my jewellery from Otiumberg, lately. They’re a relatively new brand that sell both their own designs and those of a well-curated selection of jewellery designers. A lot of their pieces are fine jewellery (i.e. solid gold) but they have incorporated gold vermeil into their own collection which is much more affordable, and it lasts longer than gold plating. Their own designs include a huge selection of hoops, some of which you can see in my photos; I think they have something for everyone. There’s also a lovely collaboration with Laura Fantacci from Wardrobe Icons. (A word of warning if you’re looking for small hoops: I bought the small huggie earring for my helix piercing but it’s far too small. Unfortunately, I can’t exchange it as it’s not possible to return earrings, understandably. So I’ve been wearing it lower down my ear.)

Monica Vinader have recently expanded on their collection of hoops. Their Fiji collection is one of their more minimal, and includes some really nice hoops. It’s their mini hoops in 18 ct yellow gold vermeil that I’ve recently been wearing instead of my studs. I really like their large hoops too, they’re not that big but a classic design anyone can wear.

New Year Intentions

Skagerak Paddle Jar* | Cate & Nelson No. 165 Watch* | Otiumberg Gold Graduated Hoops | The White Company Sandlewood Candle* | Sûrface Hand Cream* | Cereal Magazine | British Girls Magazine

I’ve never been one to think too far ahead. When someone asks me where I see myself in 5 years or 10 years my answer is usually quite predictable with no real specific goals except to be settled and happy. In some ways this is good because I tend to live in the present moment. In other ways it’s not so great because it’s important to feel you have achieved something and to know that you can achieve things if you put your mind to them.

I thought I’d try something new this year and set some New Year intentions. Intentions are more gentle than resolutions, I’ve never really stuck with resolutions and often forget about them as soon as January is over. A resolution can leave you feeling disappointed with yourself if you’re unable to complete them in the time you have allocated whereas an intention is more encouraging, something to continue to aim for this year, and next.

Six New Year Intentions

Follow My Own Path

It’s so easy to look at and take direction from others who have gone before us but to be true to myself, and get the most out of life, I think it’s important to follow my own path.

Be Mindful of What I Absorb

With so much information coming from every direction I think it’s important to learn to filter what’s useful and inspiring from what’s not. I plan to spend time reading more of the magazines I find inspiring, to limit my time online to sites and blogs that enrich my perspective, and to continue to surround myself with kind, interesting people, I respect.

Slow Down

I tend to squeeze a lot into each day, rarely giving myself the time to enjoy the moment or appreciate what I have achieved. I think it’s better to do less but do it well.

Continue To Learn

If there’s one thing that drives me it’s the desire to keep learning, whether that’s in photography, cooking, designing or styling.

Spend More Time Outside

There’s something so refreshing about a walk in the park or countryside, switching off from everything apart from what’s in front of me. It really helps to clear my mind and I don’t do it enough.

Go With The Flow

I need to learn to let go a little and appreciate the incidental things that happen, rather than worrying about what I think I should be doing.

Christmas Gift Guide: For Her 2017

So I’ve been a bit sneaky this year, instead of creating a women’s gift guide and a wish list like I usually do, I’ve combined them. I always want everything that’s on the women’s gift guide anyway so it made sense. The result is a bumper list of amazing products which I highly recommend. Each of the brands I’ve featured create the most amazing products and even if you don’t see something suitable here, please click through to their websites using the product links below, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.

1. Toast Lotus Print Flannel Gown | 2. Otiumberg Gold Graduated Hoops | 3. Print Club London ‘Swimmers’ by Nadia Taylor | 4. Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash | 5. Sarah & Sebastian Small Disc Ring in Gold | 6. PB 0110 AB 52 Shoulder Bag in Black | 7. ‘House of Plants – Living with Succulents, Air Plants and Cacti’ Book | 8. Immunocologie The Luminous Kit | 9. Sort of Coal Bincho Water Purifier | 10. ARKET Recycled Cashmere Jumper in Grey | 11. Merci Maman Personalised Pastille Chain Bracelet | 12. Comme des Garçons Medium Classic Leather Wallet in Black | 13. An Organised Life 2018 Daily Planner | 14. Murmur Mura Wash Bag in Warm White & Indigo | 15. Geo Fleur Cacti Selection Box | 16. Rathbornes Bitter Orange, Birch Tar & Balsam Classic Candle | 17. Laboratory Perfumes Amber Eau de Toilette | 18. SEP Jordan Koutubia Embroidered Cushion Cover | 19. ‘Bowls of Goodness’ Cookery Book by Nina Olsson | 20. Another Country Mug | 21. True Grace Candle Wick Trimmer | 22. Everlane The Twill Weekender in Black

I’ve included all sorts in my gift guide, some obvious gifts like earrings, beauty products and candles as well as something a little more unusual like this beautiful print by Nadia Taylor at Print Club London and a box of cacti from the cool plant people at Geo Fleur. The gorgeous hoop earrings are from Otiumberg, a brand whose website I find myself returning to over and over again because I just can’t decide which pair of earrings I want most. Women will always tell you they need another handbag but they might not feel that way if they own one of PB 0110’s timeless designs. As long as it fits the world in (well a nice make-up bag and a few other bits) and is versatile enough to go with almost everything, it’ll be a big hit. Immunocologie’s The Luminous Set is perfect for anyone struggling with their skin in this cold weather, oil based products will keep them protected. And if they’re feeling really cold and just want to cosy up at home, a beautiful dressing gown should do the trick, I’ve not seen one more beautiful than this one from Toast. SEP Jordan’s geometric cushion covers are designed and made in Jordan by female refugees. The brand has given these women a chance to make their own money so they no longer have to beg for even the most basic things. I hope you find something wonderful for the important women in your life. Happy shopping.

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