Woman by Common Projects Archives

Thoughts On Motherhood (part one)

It’s been a little while and I’m sorry I didn’t say I’d be away for so long. Motherhood is so new to me and I really had no idea what to expect or how I would find it. I thought I’d be away from the blog for three months, and then back to shooting and writing, but it’s been six months and I still don’t feel ready to commit to regular posts, just yet. Being a mum is my top priority now and I’m putting my whole heart into it. I want to be the best mum I can be to Isabelle and that means being present for her. My oldest friend told me last week that it’s the best thing I could possibly do, as I’ll never get this time with her again.

In truth, I feel so lucky and privileged to be Isabelle’s mum. She’s easygoing, settled and very happy the majority of the time. She only really cries if she’s tired, hungry or needs her nappy changing. It’s not always easy, it’s been very tough at times (there have been tears) but it’s incredibly rewarding in equal measure. She’s absolutely the best thing to happen to me/us in a long time.

Every day she changes; growing and developing new skills, and I really don’t want to miss any of it. I’m incredibly fortunate that my husband is supporting us and has given me this time to spend with her. So you can probably see why I might be a bit reluctant to commit to lots of post when they take up so much time to create, time away from Isabelle.

Depression, Anxiety & The Pressures of Motherhood

Pregnancy forced me to look inward and face the mental health issues I’ve struggled with in the past – nothing like bringing a little human into this world to make you want to get your shit together. I want to let go of the past and move forward as a happier, healthier person so that Isabelle grows up seeing me that way and is encouraged to be that way too. I’m planning to do some journaling to help get everything out of my head and hopefully put it all to rest.

I would describe myself as an anxious first-time mum, and I didn’t think I would be. At first I was nervous leaving the house with Isabelle, always worrying something would happen to her. I’m conscious that if not kept in check I’ll end up with an anxious baby; at the moment she’s far from it. At six months old she already has a wonderful, inquisitive, sociable and happy personality that is infectious to be around. I’ve gotten less anxious over time as Isabelle has become a little more robust and a little less fragile. As she grows I know I have to find the confidence to expose her to new experiences, otherwise I won’t be doing the best job I can. I’m taking it all one step at a time.

Over the last six months, I’ve put a lot of pressure on myself to meet Isabelle’s every need; feeding, changing, carrying, bouncing, pushing and generally entertaining her with a focus on her development. With little to no help from anyone except Dan, it’s been exhausting and overwhelming at times. Reading a few articles on Motherly and ‘What Mothers Do’ by Naomi Stadlan helped me to realise I’ve been doing more than enough. Friends and family regularly point out what a happy baby she is which helps reaffirm I’m doing a good job. It’s just so hard to know where to draw the line on doing a good job and running myself into the ground.

I thought I’d be the sort of mum that carried on with her life as before, only with a baby in tow. I realise now that I’d be doing Isabelle an injustice if I were to pretend everything was still the same. I’m not in a rush to return to my old life, this new one is far more exciting.

My Body, Now

In the 40ish weeks of pregnancy your body changes to the point you no longer recognise it. It takes a lot longer for it to recover, some say up to 18 months. Initially, I found it hard to cope with the ‘buddha-belly’ bump that was left behind after birth but it has shrunk and I now fit back into my old clothes (thanks to breastfeeding and a lot of walking). I don’t think my body will ever be quite the same again but I’ve found a new confidence and have fewer worries about it. I’m lucky that I didn’t gain any new stretch-marks (possibly due to my pregnancy routine). I still find it hard to believe that I grew this little person in MY body, it’s incredible.

Breastfeeding

It might not be for everyone but I’m so pleased that I’ve breastfed Isabelle. It’s not the easiest but I’ve been luckier than most, with both of us taking to it quickly. I credit Harriet, a Head Midwife at Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, for insisting I persevere and showing me how to do it that first, shattered day. It helped Isabelle and I bond quickly thanks to the physical closeness, as well as the oxytocin (the hormone that also stimulates milk production). There are so many amazing things contained in breastmilk that she can’t get from formula, including some essential antibodies that continue to strengthen her immune system.

There have been a few struggles, too. The worst has got to be blocked ducts which I’ve had several time; once so bad that I ended up brandishing a needle to my nipple. Day-to-day, I feel sick almost every time oxytocin is released into my bloodstream. It doesn’t last long but catches me off-guard constantly. Usually, it’s just as I’ve made something to eat and then I don’t feel like eating. I’ve also found breastfeeding a little restricting at times, especially early on when I needed to feed her more regularly. Knowing where you can breastfeed comfortably makes such a difference. Legally you can do it anywhere. Isabelle also went through a phase of being so distracted when we were out that she wouldn’t feed, so I needed to be at home to feed her.

Sustainability

I look at the world so differently now and want to make it a better place for Isabelle, for her future. I’m thinking more about sustainability, how I can make more changes in my life and encourage others to, as well. You’ll see me featuring a lot more (if not all) sustainably and ethically produced products; alongside lots of older products that I’ve owned for a while. I’m also going to be passing on items that no longer work for me in the hope that they do for others. Keep a look out in my Instagram Stories and in the highlights under #PassItOn.

I’m wearing:
Baukjen Ashton Trench Coat* | Beaumont Organic NICO Organic Cotton Hoodie in Navy* | ARKET Organic Cotton Regular Overdyed Jeans in Pink | Woman by Common Projects Original Achilles Low Trainers | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Auree Jewellery Brompton 9ct Yellow Gold Bangle*

Joolz Day 2 Pushchair | Jem + Bea x John Lewis Odille Changing Bag*

Greens Are Good For You

**Sandro** Veinarde Leather Biker Jacket in Black | **Second Female** Fabora Blouse in White* | **Samsøe & Samsøe** Lucy P Skirt* | **Woman by Common Projects** Original Achilles Low | **Retrosuperfuture** Paloma Black Matte Sunglasses* | **A.P.C.** Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag in Black | **Jessie Harris** Sphere Hoop Earrings | **Littionary** 14k Tiny Yellow Gold Dot Stud Earrings | **Hopscotch** Small Gold Hoops | **Merci Maman** Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Larsson & Jennings Lugano Watch*

I have to admit that although it looks quite warm in these pictures it was actually a touch on the chilly side but eager to embrace the change in seasons I bit the bullet and wore a little less. My transitional dressing from winter to spring often includes tights and thermals.

Green hasn’t featured much in my wardrobe before but this lovely muted green (called darkest spruce) seems to fit quite nicely with my clean aesthetic. I’ve just had a lovely cardigan delivered that’s a similar shade, which I’ll be sharing soon. A pleated skirt is always a good investment. It’s a timeless design that shows up season after season. This one is fairly similar to a Proenza Schouler one I spotted back in the winter of 2015, proof (if you needed it) that fashion goes in cycles, it’s actually from the Danish brand Samsøe & Samsøe.

I worried a little when I first put on this Second Female top that I might be mistaken for an off-duty dentist but however I may appear to some I love this alternative take on a white shirt. I think I might try it under a dress next. In truth, I’ll probably try it with half my wardrobe, after-all, a white shirt goes with everything.

Check Mate

This post was created in collaboration with ME+EM.

**ME+EM** Jacquard Check Jumper | **ME+EM** AM to PM Forever Pants in Navy* | **Woman by Common Projects** Original Achilles Low | **M&S** Fishnet Ankle High Tights | **Ace & Tate x It’s Nice That** Sunglasses* | **Abbott Lyon** Kensington 34 Chain Strap Watch in Silver*

Checks seem to be one of the major trends this season and I’m pretty happy about it. For someone that doesn’t wear a lot of print, checks are something I can really get into, like an entry-level print for the unaccustomed. There are some great window pane checks around and so much gingham, which I can’t get enough of and will definitely be wearing more of in the summer. Prince of Wales check is also a firm favourite, I’ve spotted some great blazers on the high street but I’m looking for one that takes it to the next level. Any sightings please let me know! I know Sézane had some nice ones last season but I was a bit slow out of the blocks.

To keep this look nice and clean I’ve stuck with navy blue head-to-toe. I have a lot of navy in my wardrobe, I find it very easy to wear, more so than black, sometimes. The top and trousers I’m wearing are both from ME+EM. I’ve mentioned the trousers before and they’ve been on my Instagram a lot but they really are the best fitting trousers I’ve come across in a long time. I’ve noticed that quite a few of you have been clicking through to them; if you’ve bought a pair, let me know how they fit?

London Fashion Week Style with ME+EM

This post was created in collaboration with ME+EM.

**ME+EM** True Chic Stripe Jumper in Bordeaux/Navy* | **ME+EM** AM to PM Forever Pants in Navy* | **Woman by Common Projects** Original Achilles Low Trainers | **Ace & Tate x It’s Nice That** Sunglasses* | **Myia Bonner** Mini Diamond Circle Stud Earrings in Gold

A lot of people (myself included, at times) feel like London Fashion Week is an opportunity to get dressed up and snapped by one of the big street style photographers, hoping you’ll find yourself on WWD, Who What Wear or Net-a-Porter the next day. It’s exciting to see yourself on one of these sites but at what cost does it come? It’s never brought me any extra interest as my name has never been published and all I’ve walked away with is sore feet, freezing cold and, more importantly, snapped in something that isn’t my true style. I still made the mistake last season of wearing heels for a day and my feet were ruined for weeks.

Feeling comfortable and confident are essential for me during London Fashion Week. There’s nothing worse than worrying about where to find a plaster whilst running between shows. I live in flats most of the time, as I’m often running all over town when I’m out, and heels aren’t practical – I save them for special events and dinners out with the hubby. During London Fashion Week I (now) stick to flats, usually a pair of Common Projects as they don’t rub my feet. With trainers I like to wear a pair of tailored trousers, I like the mix of smart and casual. This pair, with their paper-bag waist, are the most flattering trousers I own. I have them in black, too. They are ever-so slimming. And, it probably comes as no surprise to see me in stripes. It’s a look I feel comfortable in and leaves me to focus on taking in the new collections, the reason I’m there in the first place.

A Few Winter Wardrobe Essentials

**Jaeger** Wool Wrap Coat in Black* | **Armor-Lux** Tricolor Breton Top* | **Samsøe & Samsøe** Lisa Jeans* | **Penmayne of London** Willow Fedora in Midnight Blue* (Now Closed) | **Jaeger** Mini Oxford Cross-Body Bag in Black* | **Woman by Common Projects** Original Achilles Low | **CFconcept** Tusk Necklace in Gold | **Rotary** Men’s Legacy Automatic Watch (use my discount code ROTARYSTYLE to get 30% off)* | **Merci Maman** Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold c/o **Not On The High Street*** | **Kristen Elspeth** Blade Ring, Axe Ring & Spear Ring*

I’m always looking for great essentials. Given all this chilly weather I’ve been in search of the perfect winter wardrobe essentials, building blocks that I can mix and match throughout the season, and beyond. During the cold months I tend to focus on finding great accessories and warm coats.

I first featured Penmayne of London’s stunning hats last winter when I was at Paris Fashion Week. I wore their Willow fedora in mink to a few events. I’ve always been a hat person and love discovering a new hat brand that puts beautiful craftsmanship above all else. I’ve owned quite a few fedoras but this one is by far my favourite, it has a great shape that holds (not floppy like some) and the brim is just the right width for me, not too slim, not too wide. Their hats are made to last and I know I will cherish mine for many years to come.

Jaeger is a great brand for wool coats, they’re well made, well tailored and feel good on. This long black one has been serving me well this winter. With it’s longer length I can tie it up and feel totally wrapped up. It’s been made with the softest inky black wool and looks great worn open or tied with its kimono-style waist belt.

Borrowed From The Boys

**COS** Men’s Wool & Yak Sweater in Dark Grey | **Side Party** Hackney Buttoned Corduroy Skirt in Grey Blue* | **Comme des Garçons PLAY** Stripe Long-sleeve T-shirt (always low in stock online, I got mine at Dover Street Market) | **Heist** The Thirty Tights in Jet Black* | **Jaeger** Mini Oxford Cross-Body Bucket Bag in Black* | **Woman by Common Projects** Original Achilles Low Trainers in White | **Saint James** Mariner’s Cap in Navy | **Kristen Elspeth** Blade Ring, Axe Ring & Spear Ring* | **Sophie Wallgren** Marta Bracelet in Gold* (now closed) | **Timex** Weekender Fairfield Watch in Khaki Green Leather*

Even though I have quite a few sweaters of my own I’m always want to borrow Dan’s. There’s something so wonderful about the feel of an oversized sweater, especially when it’s not yours. However, it’s rare that I actually do borrow his though, as his collection is a lot smaller than mine and I feel pretty bad for taking them away from him.

I spotted this charcoal grey sweater in the men’s section of COS a few weeks ago and have been living in it, ever since. It’s super soft (a mix of wool and yak), very comfortable and just the right size that it doesn’t swamp me. I’ve been able to wear it with everything.

This year I’m focused on curating my perfect wardrobe. There’s so much I need to sell or give to charity, pieces that don’t bring me joy (I’m in a Marie Kondo frame of mind) and that have lingered too long in my wardrobe. I want to open my wardrobe and have the problem of not knowing what to wear because I want to wear it all. This last year I’ve spent more money on items I want to wear until the day they fall apart, like this Comme des Garçons PLAY t-shirt (just seen) and perfect white leather trainers by Common Projects. (If you’re planning to buy the t-shirt go up a size and down at least one size for the trainers.)

If you’re looking for a great pair of tights I cannot recommend Heist enough. Not only do they have the coolest branding and packaging but they are also the most comfortable tights I’ve ever worn. This is due to their unique seamless 3D knitted design and a waistband made using a luxury sportswear technique that means it doesn’t dig in or roll-up. Kudos to Heist, they really have nailed it.

On Track with ME+EM

This post was created in collaboration with ME+EM.

**Maison Scotch** Paris T-Shirt* | **ME+EM** Luxe Tailored Track Pants* | **Chinti and Parker** Good Girl Bad Girl Cashmere Sweater in Red* | **Woman by Common Projects** Original Achilles Low Trainers* | **ME+EM** Leather Handbag Filing Pouch in Black* | **Susan Caplan** Asymmetrical Ori Earrings in 18ct Gold Vermeil* | **CF Concept** Tusk Necklace in Gold* | **Larsson & Jennings** Liten Watch* | **Felice Dahl** Första Ring in Gold* | **Retrosuperfuture** Flat Top Sunglasses in Havana*

The trend for tailored track pants is one that’s been hard to miss. Whilst brands like ME+EM spotted the trend a while ago it’s taken Chloe (who nailed the look in their SS17 collection) to bring it to the glossies and the legs of every other editor during fashion month. As always, with these things, it’s not a new trend but one that’s really been brought to the forefront this season with the wide-leg version, a chicer 70s inspired take on an otherwise quite sporty look.

Last year ME+EM released a beautiful red pair with white stripes down the side of the leg which I wish I’d bought or they’d brought back this season. Just as I felt ready to embrace the red this season they decided to go with a sharp black pair which is definitely more in keeping with my personal style. I’ve been wearing mine mostly with a crisp white shirt or simple sweater now it’s a little chillier out.

Best Vintage Shops In London

**Belstaff** Roadmaster Jacket in Navy Blue (vintage) | **Baukjen** Thompson Striped Shirt* | **Paige** Verdugo Skinny Jeans in Black* | **Woman by Common Projects** Original Achilles Low Trainers in White | **Radley** De Beauvoir Tote Bag in Black* | **UNIQLO** Cashmere Scarf in Light Grey | **Ace & Tate** x **It’s Nice That** Sunglasses* | **Felice Dahl** Första Ring in Gold* | **Dinny Hall** Bijoux Star Stud in Gold* | **Dinny Hall** Bijou Pentagon Stud Earring in Gold* | **Littionary** Tiny Dot Stud Earrings in Yellow Gold

I like new clothes as much as the next person but I also love a good vintage find and we’re lucky to have so many great vintage shops in London.

In the summer I picked up this Belstaff Roadmaster wax jacket in one of my favourite haunts in Notting Hill, a little shop that’s been around for years and is a major treasure trove of vintage clothes, shoes and accessories, Retro Woman (there’s a Retro Man a few shops down). It’s one of the few vintage shops where I have to decide which piece I’m going to buy as I stumble out of the changing room, arms laden. Last time I was there I tried on pieces from Joseph, Equipment and Nicole Farhi, all reasonably priced and in good condition. They have a brilliant selection of sunglasses, too.

Goldsmith Vintage is the best place I’ve found in London for vintage Levi’s. It’s pretty much opposite Electric House.

Best Vintage Shops In London

Retro Woman | 20 Pembridge Road, London W11 3HL
Beyond Retro Soho | 58-59 Great Marlborough Street, London W1F 7JY
Beyond Retro Cheshire Street | 110-112 Cheshire Street, London E2 6EJ
Goldsmith Vintage | 253 Portobello Road, London W11 1LR (great for Levi’s)
Rokit | 42 Shelton Street, London WC2H 9HZ

Wardrobe Essentials with Jules B

This post was created in collaboration with Jules B.

**Suncoo** Leopard Print Coat | **Charli** Sadie Melange Boyfriend Shirt in White c/o **Jules B*** | **Charli** Judy Leggings in Iron c/o **Jules B*** | **Radley** De Beauvoir Zip-Top Tote Bag in Black* | **Ace & Tate** x **It’s Nice That** Sunglasses* | **Woman by Common Projects**Original Achilles Low | **Larsson & Jennings** Liten Watch c/o Farfetch* | **Auree Jewellery** Tembo Shina Bracelet in Rose Gold* | **Auree Jewellery** Tembo Pembe Bracelet in Silver* | **Gemporia** 9k Yellow Gold Stacker Ring* | **CF Concept** Drop Ring in Gold* | **Merci Maman** Graduation Chain Charm Necklace in Gold*

I’m often wear a shirt, jeans and white trainers; it’s my uniform on days when I don’t have time to think. You know the days I mean, when you’re up early, your brain hasn’t quite woken up and you wish you’d decided on an outfit the night before.

Charli is a great brand for essentials; like crisp white shirts, silk blouses, skinny jeans and (during the winter) really nice cashmere jumpers. If I’m going to be wearing pieces often they need to be well-made, I love the quality of Charli’s clothing. The white shirt is cut to a longer length so it’s great for layering under cosy knits. The skinny jeans are really stretchy so they’re super comfortable but hold their shape. I got them both from Jules B, a multi-brand website that stocks some great brands.

Shine On

**ME+EM** Luxury Leather Bomber in Soft Mink* | **Mango** Buckle Wrap Patent Skirt | **Charli** Scarlet Silk V-Neck Top c/o **Jules B*** | **Cambridge Satchel Company** Saddle Bag in Black* | **Common Projects** Original Achilles Low Trainers in White | **Ace & Tate** x **It’s Nice That** Sunglasses* | **Missoma** Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold* | **Larsson & Jennings** Liten Watch c/o **Farfetch** | **CF Concept** Drop Rings in Silver | Black Fedora from Portobello Road

Even though the days have been a little chilly lately, I’m sticking with skirts for as long as I can, I’m really not ready to wear jeans everyday which is usually what happens when it gets colder. I find it helps to wear silk and leather; most people assume that silk is best for the summer but it’s actually a good insulator and perfect for staying warm in the cooler months.

The silk top I’m wearing is by Charli, a British brand I’ve only just discovered thanks to the multi-brand website, Jules B. Charli make luxury separates like cashmere jumpers and crisp cotton shirts, all of which I love.

The black patent skirt I’m wearing is from Mango which, I’ve noticed, has already sold out in their London stores (I bought mine online). Patent is going to be showing up everywhere this season but this is my first foray. The big round silver buckle made this particular patent skirt stand out; Hoops are another big trend I’m keen on this season.

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.

LFW AW16: Day 4

**Jonathan Saunders** Quilted Bomber Jacket in White | **Marina London** Dree Shirt Dress in Navy (brand closed) | **Samsøe & Samsøe** Lisa Jeans | **Common Projects** Original Achilles Low Trainers | **Ace & Tate** Sebastian Sunglasses in Bio Black* | **Renné** Halo Bangle in Silver* | **Jenny Sweetnam** Drop Ring/Necklace* | **Nixon** The Time Teller Watch* | **Gemporia** Arezzo D’oro Gold & Diamond Ring* | **Brandts Jewellery** Daisy Ring

It was time for comfort on LFW Day 4, out came my favourite white bomber jacket by incredible British designer, Jonathan Saunders. This beauty rarely comes out as I’m paranoid about getting it dirty but it felt like the right occasion. As it was a bit chilly I layered a gorgeous silk shirt dress by the talented silk magician Marina London over some straight-leg jeans. These ones by Samsoe & Samsoe fit me so perfectly, they’re non-stretch, mid-rise, in a blue wash that’s not too rinsed. I finished off the look with my best white trainers, that’s right, the Woman by Common Projects got another outing even though it was raining a little, I’m such a risk taker.

Not So Common, Yet

For Christmas, my fiancé very kindly bought me a pair of Common Projects! I became aware of this understated trainer brand about a year ago and I’d been dying for a pair ever since. They are very minimal in design, no stripes, no mention of the brand name, just ten digits on the side stamped in gold – a style reference, the European size and a colour reference.

Common Projects is not a new brand but it’s only just started to resonate with women, helped on by the support of Net-a-Porter. The company was started by Peter Poopat and Flavio Girolami, they launched their first collection in 2004. The womens collection, Woman by Common Projects, didn’t launch until 2009. Their slow rise to fame may have something to do with their cost, at nearly 4 times that of Stan Smiths, they’re not a cheap option but what you get is a beautiful, comfortable trainer made in Italy from premium Italian leather.