Cheap Frills – February’s Thrifty Six

Cheap Frills – February’s Thrifty Six

Who doesn’t love cheap frills? I’m into frills of any kind, but the thrifty ones are the best! It was my turn to set this month’s Thrifty Six theme, so that’s what I chose. I found this blouse on Vinted last year. It’s by the label Elsa.m by May, a brand I first discovered in a shop that I visit in Madeira. As it turns out, quite a lot of shops stock the label and there are also plenty of pre-loved items on Vinted.

The orange trainers and hat “bookend” the blue

This blouse was only about £4, so I didn’t hesitate in buying it. The fabric feels nice on and not like it’s highly flammable, as you get with some cheaper brands! I wore this outfit to work at the weekend; it was a cold day so I wore my jeans, which are quite a thick denim. Because the barrel leg jeans are slightly cropped, I opted for a woollen jacket rather than a coat, just to balance the proportions. The orange trainers and hat “bookend” the blue (some call it “sandwich dressing”). I don’t wear this classic navy jacket enough; it was such a great charity shop find. It’s really warm and goes with almost anything, although orange and blue seems to be a favourite combination of mine! (I’ve previously worn it with orange trousers and these trainers.)

I was glad I’d worn a warm layer because there was a half marathon about to start right outside the building where I work, so the car park was closed and we had to park further away. We had to elbow our way through all the runners who were all tightly packed together, limbering up ready for the off. It certainly brought back memories of marathon running – not all good ones! Waiting around in the cold wearing thin lycra is no fun!

Elsa.m by May blouse (Vinted) | Marks and Spencer jacket (charity shop, similar, similar) | River Island jeans | Superdry trainers (similar) | Fenella Smith bag | hat from eBay

Now for some more cheap frills…

Jodie of Jodie’s Touch of Style

“There was a time when I would have NEVER worn ruffles of any kind. I didn’t consider them professional so I never bought them. After retiring, it’s been freeing to incorporate all sorts of styles into my wardrobe. For this prompt, I decided to concentrate on women who don’t love frills…I paired them with other styles so they wouldn’t be too girly. This is one example where I included frills in a more masculine look. Everything except the vest is thrifted or preloved.

Shelbee of Shelbee on the Edge

“I am not a frilly type so I had to dig deep into my closet to find a preloved something with a hint of frills. This thrifted floral dress has a bit of frill connecting each of the tiers as well as frilly flutter sleeves. I added a super frilly scarf which was not preloved but was definitely cheap! I bought it for a few dollars from a New York City street vendor about 25 years ago, making it just as budget- and environmentally-friendly as buying secondhand!”

Nancy of Nancy’s Fashion Style

“Cheap frills…..okay, just had one item and no time to search for something on Vinted. So how to make it work! I actually like frills on blouses, picture Prince back in the days. Or even further back: Adam and the Ants!! But no frill blouses in my closet, say what? So I came up with this look and I have to say, I am loving it. Can’t even be bothered with all the lines you see through the silky skirt. But I am wearing a dress! I also wore it for the “Animal Prints But No Leopard” Thrifty Six theme last year!”

Sally of Within a World of My Own

“I’m not a frilly girl, but I do like a feminine floral print in a skirt with a bit of flounce to it, like this thrifted Talbots skirt that I styled for winter with a black top and textured tuxedo jacket (both also thrifted). My look has its usual maximal vibe with a layered necklace (all made by me) and two scarves – a print infinity scarf with a thrifted pink striped scarf wrapped around it. The structured black pieces help offset the sweetness of the pink florals for a fun juxtaposition of an outfit.”

Jane of Preloved-Vintage-Handmade

“I’m shameless…

The T6 theme for February is ‘Cheap Frills’, so how could I not slip into a cheeky pair of vintage frilly knickers…

These frivolous frills were never designed for show, but I like to shimmy them shamelessly on the outside for all to see!”

I hope you enjoyed this array of cheap frills! We’ll be back with more thrifty outfits on the third Monday of March!

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Multi-Functional Sofas That Work for Lounging and Socialising

Multi-Functional Sofas That Work for Lounging and Socialising

Sofas are more than just furniture – they’re kind of the centre of your living space. After a long day, it’s where you kick back, put your feet up, and relax. It’s also the spot for catching up with friends or maybe even a quick nap. I like sofas that can handle different things, like lounging or hanging out with people.

A good one makes everything comfy and sets a nice vibe for guests. Movie nights, working from home, or reading a book – it’s hard to picture those without a decent, versatile sofa.

Why a Multi-Functional Sofa Matters

For me, a good sofa isn’t just about looks, it needs to be practical. That’s where a modular sofa sleeper comes in as a great option. It gives you the flexibility to rearrange seating based on your needs, and if guests stay over, it easily converts into a comfortable bed. I love how it maximizes space without sacrificing style. Another essential feature? A wide sofa couch. After a long day, nothing can compete with stretching a bit; and a spacious sitting space is needed for everyone to relax. I mean, nothing matters more than one large couch in a small apartment or an extra-large home. And what’s more? A wider sofa does away with the need for supplementary chairs, thus maintaining a more welcoming atmosphere in your living room.

The Perfect Setup for Lounging

When I’m looking for the perfect sofa experience, I go for quality and durable options like the 4-seater couch with chaise. Alright, let’s talk about the chaise for a minute. It’s a solid pick if you’re not sure what to go with. You get extra room to stretch out, and it makes a cosy little corner for reading, watching TV, or just kicking back. Plus, a chaise has this neat bonus – it can act like a gentle divider in an open space. It marks off the seating area without making it feel boxed in. Pretty handy, right?

To make the space even more practical, I incorporate ottoman trays, which is another option to add on the list. These are essential when I need to set down drinks, snacks, or even my laptop. This feature really adds convenience but doesn’t clutter the space, so they’re a must-have for any living area. Moreover, if you own an ottoman with an in-built storage compartment, you can tuck away blankets and remotes into it, creating a cleaner and more organised look.

Comfort is always a factor whenever I look for a sofa that matches my home, and I can never resist adding a few throw pillows and a soft blanket to further entice people onto the sofa. A well-placed rug underfoot helps define the seating area while adding warmth to the room.

Creating a Social Space

A good sofa needs to inspire conversation and connection, and that’s why I prefer a modular sofa, which means I really can change my configuration depending upon whether it’s game night, just a casual get-together or a holiday visit. If I want more open seating, I can space them apart; if I want a cosier option, I can push them back together again.

Where you put everything matters too. It’s best to arrange seating so no one’s stuck feeling out of the loop and everyone can join in. I don’t like to shove the sofa right up against the wall either; leaving a little space keeps the room flowing nicely. Having a couple of accent chairs and a bench in the mix keeps things open without feeling packed in.

Lighting’s a big part of it too, it’s got to feel warm and welcoming, not harsh. A combination of floor lamps, table lamps, and overhead shades works well. Soft light just pulls the whole room together, creating a chilled atmosphere which is ideal whether you have friends over or are just unwinding after a long day.

Maximizing Functionality Without Sacrificing Style

You don’t have to pick between a sofa that works hard and one that looks good, you can have both. A modular sofa sleeper is proof of that. It’s got style and does the job, fitting right in no matter what your vibe is. If you’re into that sleek, modern, less-is-more look, there are options for you. Prefer something classic with a warm, cosy feel? Plenty of those too.

I like to play with texture and colour on my sofa. A neutral one looks sharp with some bright, bold throw pillows tossed on it. If you’re feeling fancy, a velvety fabric bumps up the glam factor in a snap. For a light and laid-back look, go for soft linen covers and pillows in earthy tones. It keeps things easy going and natural.

Final Thoughts

Picking out a couch that’s both practical and cool takes a bit of work, but it’s worth it. Whether it’s a modular sofa sleeper that’s ready for surprise overnight guests, a big wide sofa perfect for sprawling out, or even an ottoman with a tray for extra convenience, mixing these pieces can really shake up your living space in a good way.

For me, a well-designed setup means cosy and useful, somewhere to kick back, hang out with friends, and just enjoy being home. It’s not only about how it looks, but how it feels too.

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Blue Flower Cardigan + Style With a Smile Link Up

Blue Flower Cardigan + Style With a Smile Link Up

We’ve had sunshine and temperatures in the teens! I know this is probably what’s known as a “fool’s spring” but I’m not going to knock it. I even got some washing on the line for the first time this year! It wasn’t so sunny on Sunday when we took these photos, but it was mild. The start of March and the extra daylight makes so much difference to how I feel, even if the news is depressing, infuriating and bewildering. I’m sure I don’t need to elaborate…I’ll just let the colours of my outfit do the talking.

The loose fitting style of this blue flower cardigan makes it perfect for layering over a roll neck top or tee

Which brings me onto this fabulous flower-embellished cardigan from Izabel*. Knitwear is an essential wardrobe component for spring. When you no longer need a big coat but still want to feel cosy, a cardigan or coatigan will serve you well. The loose fitting style of this blue flower cardigan makes it perfect for layering over a roll neck top or tee. It doesn’t have buttons, but if I wanted to keep it fastened I could use a brooch.

I’ve used the three colour formula again, with blue as the main hue, yellow for contrast and the white flowers as the accents. Although my earrings are more turquoise, they match the cardigan quite well. I wish I’d have got a close up as they have white flowers with yellow centres too. I made them from polymer clay a while ago, which is lots of fun to work with.

Celebrating International Women’s Day

I’ve got a busy end of week as I’m working in Birmingham on Friday. Then on Saturday I’m heading back there for Women Unleashed at the Bullring with my Instagram pal Lou Featherstone AKA Luinluland! Saturday is International Women’s Day so what better way to spend it than with a group of fabulous ladies! I’ll be catching up with some friends I made at a similar event Lou hosted a couple of years ago. I can’t wait!

Izabel cardigan* (PR product) | New Look jumper (old, similar) | Guess trainers (old, similar) | Naanaa trousers (Asos) | Bright bags yellow bag (old, similar)

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Stress-Free Family Photo Sessions: A Guide for New Photographers

Stress-Free Family Photo Sessions: A Guide for New Photographers

A well-executed family photo shoot captures more than just smiles—it preserves connections, emotions, and moments that families will cherish for years. But for new photographers, these sessions may feel a little overwhelming. Unlike working with solo clients, you’ll need to navigate group dynamics, manage unpredictable behaviour (especially from young children), and create an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable in front of the camera.

The challenge lies not only in composing beautiful shots but also in ensuring the entire experience feels effortless and enjoyable for the family. Someone’s stress, discomfort, or rigid posing can easily show in the final images, making it essential to foster a relaxed and natural environment.

Fortunately, by mastering a few key techniques, you can transform what may seem like a daunting task into a seamless and rewarding experience. This guide explores practical tips and strategies for new photographers to create stress-free family photo sessions that leave both you and your clients with captivating and memorable images.

Preparation and Planning: Setting the Stage for Success

A successful family photo session begins long before the first click of the shutter. The secret lies in careful planning, which eliminates last-minute issues and allows you to focus on capturing natural, heartfelt moments. To set the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable experience, keep these essentials in mind:

Scout the Right Location

Choosing the right setting can make all the difference in the mood and quality of your photos. Outdoor locations provide natural beauty, but lighting can vary greatly—early mornings and late afternoons offer soft, flattering light, while midday sun can be harsh; clouds can also affect the quality of light. Always visit the location beforehand to assess lighting, angles, backdrops, and potential distractions like crowds. For controlled conditions, consider renting a London photography studio or similar professional space in your area. A well-equipped studio offers adjustable lighting, protects against unpredictable weather, and ensures a polished, editorial-style finish – ideal for families seeking a refined aesthetic.

Advise Families on Outfits

Clothing choices play a major role in the final look of portraits. If the family doesn’t have a preferred theme yet, suggest complementary colour palettes instead of identical outfits to achieve a cohesive look without looking overly staged. Earthy tones, neutrals, or pastels are also great choices, as they photograph well and complement most environments. Finally, unless the family is going for campy or funny photos, have them avoid loud patterns, logos, or neon shades, which can be distracting in photos.

Bring Essential Gear

Being well-equipped eliminates unnecessary stress and ensures you can handle different lighting conditions, compositions, and unexpected challenges. Your checklist should include:

  • A versatile camera body with multiple lenses
  • Extra batteries and memory cards
  • A tripod for stability
  • Reflectors or an external flash to control lighting
  • Small props like blankets, toys, or bubbles to engage children

Building Rapport with Families: Creating a Comfortable Atmosphere

Every family has its own unique energy, and connecting with each member is key to bringing out their best during the shoot. Most would probably be nervous, especially if this is their first professional session, so your ability to set a relaxed tone will directly impact the quality of your images. Remember, when families feel at ease, they interact more naturally, allowing you to capture moments that feel genuine rather than forced.

To create a relaxed atmosphere and elicit authentic smiles, consider these strategies:

Engage with Children First

Children often set the tone for the session; if they’re engaged, parents will naturally follow suit. Start by introducing yourself in a friendly, playful way – ask about their favourite toys, cartoons, or activities. Instead of expecting them to sit still, encourage movement-based interactions, such as jumping, twirling, or playing with their parents. These light-hearted interactions help break the ice and make children feel at ease.

Create a Connection with Parents

Unless they’re professional models, parents, too, may feel nervous in front of the camera. Keep the conversation light by complimenting their outfit choices or asking about their favourite family traditions. Provide simple posing guidance to prevent stiffness, but also encourage natural interactions – suggest walking hand-in-hand, sharing a joke, or playing with their child. Subtle movements make a big difference in creating relaxed, intimate moments.

Ease Camera Shyness

For individuals who are particularly camera-shy, movement-based poses can help ease their discomfort. Walking, gentle swaying, or even hugging allows them to focus on the moment rather than the camera. Offer gentle reassurance, reminding them that the best photos capture emotions, not perfection.

Capturing Candid Moments: Embracing Authenticity over Poses

Some of the most treasured family portraits aren’t the ones where everyone is perfectly posed but the ones that capture genuine interactions. Families want to see real emotions – the spontaneous laughter, the playful moments, and the quiet, affectionate glances.

To capture heartfelt images, encourage spontaneous behaviour. Give families simple prompts like “Whisper something funny to each other” or “Give the biggest bear hug you can!” These not only help clients feel less self-conscious but also generate natural expressions and dynamic compositions. Be ready to adapt quickly, as some of the best moments happen when you least expect them.

Position yourself to anticipate these moments, keeping an eye on body language and subtle interactions. When possible, use techniques like framing to create a sense of intimacy, focusing on small details such as a child’s hand holding their parent’s. By prioritising candid moments, you’ll deliver images that feel personal and timeless.

Stress-free family photo sessions do not happen by chance – they’re the result of thoughtful preparation, genuine connections, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. With time, practice, and a flexible mindset, you’ll transform what might seem like a challenging task into one of the most fulfilling parts of your photography journey.

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Tweed Cape and Burgundy Cords + Style With a Smile Link Up

Tweed Cape and Burgundy Cords + Style With a Smile Link Up

How’s your week going? I’m a little late posting the link up this week as it’s been a busy one! You know how it is when there are lots of little jobs to do that end up taking way more time than you anticipated? Well, that’s how it’s been for me so far this week. Anyway, on to the outfit! I’m delighted to share a brand that’s new to me in today’s post. Just before Christmas, the team at Grace and Dotty got in touch to ask if I’d like to style one of their pieces. After the original parcel went astray in the post, I received this fabulous cape a couple of weeks ago.

I didn’t know what was in the package, so it was a wonderful surprise when I opened it! I’m a big fan of capes and ponchos (you may remember this outfit from a few months ago), so I’m over the moon to add another one to my collection. Dotty and Grace combines country heritage with contemporary style to create beautiful, high quality garments. All of their pieces are developed, designed and made in England.

I wore this tweed cape and burgundy cords when we visited a little shopping village recently

The Ludlow cape has a dark olive base with a burnt orange and aubergine check running through it. I particularly love this colourway as it is goes with a lot of other items I own. Burgundy has become a really popular colour recently and I’ve been adding more of it to my wardrobe. I purchased these cord trousers from Marks and Spencer in the autumn but have only just started wearing them. They’re more comfortable than jeans and the fabric has a lovely luxurious sheen to it. They are appear to be sold out now but I’ve linked to some alternatives in the widget.

I wore this tweed cape and burgundy cords when we visited a little shopping village recently, just down the road from where we live. There’s a boutique there which had lots of fabulous clothes, and mum bought me this burgundy top that I’m wearing underneath. The fabric is super soft, it’s the perfect base layer. I completed the look with an olive fedora, burgundy sock boots and my Teddy Blake bordo bag.

Do you wear capes? Take a look at the beautiful pieces on the Grace and Dotty website!

Grace and Dotty cape (PR product) | Marks and Spencer trousers | Zara boots (old) | Teddy Blake Lola Palmellato bag (PR product) | River Island hat | Emilio Pucci sunglasses

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5 Prep Tips to Make the Most of a Newborn Lifestyle Photoshoot

5 Prep Tips to Make the Most of a Newborn Lifestyle Photoshoot

Just when the much-awaited pregnancy photoshoot is over, it’s about time to prepare for a newborn photo session. Parents can’t help but desire to capture their newborn’s precious, fleeting moments of the early days of life.

The current trend is to keep the snaps as authentic as possible. Parents are trading staged props and expressions for natural and candid moments. The concept of newborn lifestyle photoshoots is steadily on the rise.

It offers plenty of room for your family to document the truest version of daily life. You may even find your baby surprising you with adorably grumpy faces.

If you’re nervous and feel unprepared for your baby’s photoshoot, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ve listed five tips that will help you prepare for a fun and successful newborn lifestyle photoshoot.

Plan Your Baby’s Sleep and Bath Time

With a newborn baby, you never know what to expect. One would say that’s the beauty of it. In other words, you can get as candid as you want with your child’s photoshoot.

In case you’re uncomfortable without a bit of planning, start with their sleep and bath time. You want your little one to look as fresh and clean as possible. It’s best to give them a warm sponge bath about an hour before the session starts.

Remember that this will keep the baby awake for some time before they tire out and fall asleep. It’s great from the perspective of capturing those priceless sleepy shots. Otherwise, you may have to allow them to sleep after their bath and begin the photoshoot once they’re up.

  • You can massage their shoulders, chest, arms, or spine.
  • Stroke their face, right from their nose to chin and around the mouth.
  • Change your baby’s position by holding them on your lap or lowering and raising them in a ‘sit-up’ motion.
  • Lift your baby, talk to them, and move their arms/legs around.
  • Mildly rub their cheeks or tickle the bottom of their feet.

Feed Them, But Be Prepared

It is generally recommended that a baby be fed an hour before a photoshoot to keep them calm and cooperative. However, it may not work for the entirety of the shoot, which normally lasts between three and five hours.

This depends on whether all photos will be clicked indoors and whether your baby is breastfed. For instance, formula-fed babies tend to stay fuller longer than breastfed ones because the former takes a lot more time to digest.

Then there are breastfeeding mothers who struggle to keep their newborns satisfied despite frequent feedings. If that’s the case with your baby, ensure that supplement milk is easily accessible.

On that note, supplementing with cow-milk-based baby formulas like Enfamil and Similac is discouraged. TorHoerman Law shares how these bovine formulas have caused Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC).

It is a serious gastrointestinal condition that can be potentially fatal. Over 600 affected families have filed a lawsuit against formula manufacturers. Because serious injuries have affected the most innocent, the NEC lawsuit payout can reach hundreds of millions of dollars.

To keep your baby calm and full, it’s best to supplement but avoid cow-milk-based formulas. Above all, plan to feed your baby should the need arise. You will need to do the following –

  • Communicate any potential needs to the photographer before the shoot begins.
  • Bring along a blanket or wrap for privacy and comfort.
  • Wear a nursing bra for easier access.
  • Carry a breast pump to extract milk, if needed.
  • Bring along all props needed for supplement milk, like bottles, warmers, pacifiers, etc.

Be As Comfortable As Possible

A lifestyle photoshoot with your newborn is all about arresting the most natural loving moments of your life as a family. This means you do not have to overdo it, with your clothes, hairstyles, or makeup.

Your prime focus is to be as comfortable as possible. We would recommend dressing as low-key as you want, either in terms of color or pattern. It’s best to avoid bright plaid shirts or graphic tees.

Perhaps grab a cozy sweater or dress and pair it with some contrasting leggings. Since your baby may get hungry anytime during the shoot, ensure your clothes are suitable for nursing.

Think of it this way: what would you normally wear on ‘just another day of your life’ as a mother? That’s the key to a natural-looking lifestyle photoshoot. As a pro-tip, you can wear neutral and earth tones or any colors that vibe well with the hues in your home.

The same goes for makeup and accessories. Stay simple so that the pictures look like a piece taken out of your daily life. If you want a bit of fun and drama, there’s no harm in dressing up. The thumb rule is to be perfectly comfortable.

Prepare the Photoshoot Areas

A lot of folks believe that the only place a newborn lifestyle photoshoot works is indoors. In a sense, this is true because families spend a significant chunk of their time at home.

Over the past two decades, we are turning into a nation of homebodies. Also, home is often considered to be a haven against the chaos of the outside world. However, lifestyle does not begin and end there.

As mentioned previously, you can click pictures at a favorite local park or a restaurant too. It may not be possible to prepare these locations, so focus on your home and its surroundings.

From your baby’s nursery to your master bedroom even the backyard can be made ready for a photo session. What can you possibly do? Make space near large windows to make the most of natural light.

Clear the areas with any clutter so your family can easily fit into the frame. We know how meticulously you’ve designed your home and nursery for welcoming your baby. This is a classic opportunity to show off all your carefully selected decor!

Don’t Stress, Seriously Don’t

It’s natural to be nervous and want everything to go as planned. What’s best is to do the exact opposite of your natural inclinations.

Plan by all means, but do not overthink this day. Extend grace to yourself if things don’t go as planned. Make room for interruptions or ‘baby accidents’ since they often happen unforeseen.

One day in the distant future, such moments will become cherished memories you associate with your baby’s photoshoot. Moreover, if there are certain areas (like the kitchen) that look less than perfect, do not fret.

Unless you need to click pictures in a space, it’s not necessary to get everything in order. Keeping it all together can be challenging with a newborn as it is. A few dishes in the sink won’t hurt your family’s special moments.

The purpose of this day is to capture the love you and your spouse share for the little human you made. Those unplanned moments, like newborn yawns or the pup sniffing your baby’s head, will become precious tokens of love in the future.

Did you know that around 3.6 million babies were born across the US in 2024? With that, we’ve seen the final numbers of another generation. Babies born between 2025 and 2039 will become a part of Generation Beta.

Are you the proud parents of a Gen Beta member yourself? Ideally, a newborn lifestyle photoshoot should be done when the baby is 7 to 20 days old. So, what are you waiting for? Start making preparations already!

Images courtesy of Unsplash.

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Lovely (Faux) Leather – February’s Style Not Age Challenge

Lovely (Faux) Leather – February’s Style Not Age Challenge

How was your weekend? For me it was one of two halves; Saturday was dry and sunny so we got some gardening done, whereas Sunday was dull and rainy and I didn’t feel like doing much at all. This is the last week of meteorological winter and I’m heartily glad it’s nearly over! It’s my least favourite season and I’m looking forward to the clocks going forward next month.

I decided to try styling these lovely (faux) leather culottes with long boots

As it’s the last Monday of the month it’s time for another Style Not Age challenge. Hilda set the theme of Lovely Leather for February. Other than footwear and bags, I don’t own much leather, real or faux. It can be uncomfortable if you’re prone to hot flushes (or power surges as I prefer to call them!). I have a faux leather shirt which I featured here, but I don’t like to wear black on my top half, unless it’s for an evening look.

I decided to try styling these lovely (faux) leather culottes with long boots. The only other time I’ve worn them was for a previous Style Not Age challenge titled “What I’d Wear On the Frow“. I really liked how that outfit turned out, this one, not so much. I’m not at all convinced the culottes work with the boots. In hindsight, I think patterned tights with ankle or shoe boots would have looked better. I threw the whole look together rather hastily as the weather was awful and I had to dash outside as soon as there was a break in the rain. I didn’t have time to faff, so I just had to go with it! Anyway, I think it’s good to experiment, even if it doesn’t always work out!

River Island culottes (similar, similar) | Never Fully Dressed blouse (Vinted) | Vivaia boots (previous PR) | Country Casuals coat (charity shop) | Accessorize hat (Vinted) | Yaa Yaa London ring (similar)

How I wore the faux leather culottes previously

More lovely leather looks

Hilda bought this elegant leather coat in an Oxfam shop in Malahide last November. What a fantastic find! She shopped her wardrobe for the rest of the outfit. You can see more of this look at Over the Hilda.

Jacqui of MummabStylish teamed brown faux leather trousers with a pale blue jumper, topped off with a leopard print trench. Such a gorgeous colour combination!

Anna is showcasing her Laidback London leather boots with a lovely chunky knit jumper. Head over to Anna’s Island Style for all the details.

Do you wear much leather, faux or real?

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Green Sweatshirt and Jeans + Style With a Smile Link Up

Green Sweatshirt and Jeans + Style With a Smile Link Up

I went so long without wearing jeans, and then like buses, two styles came along that are now part of my regular casual wardrobe. First the Marks and Spencer palazzo style, and then these barrel leg jeans. They make a change from joggers, which is what I often wear when I’m at home. Wearing an elevated casual outfit not only makes me feel better because I’ve made an effort, it also means I don’t have to change if I need to suddenly go out anywhere.

This green sweatshirt and jeans is a simple outfit formula but I still feel put together

Good quality basic pieces make that process so much easier. This green sweatshirt and jeans is a simple outfit formula but I still feel put together. This is my second sweatshirt from Acegolfs (you can see more pieces from the brand in this post). They are great for all year round because they wick moisture away from the skin, protect against the wind and have built in SPF. The soft, four-way stretch fabric makes them super comfortable. It was a cold day, so I layered a thin long sleeve burgundy top underneath. That gave me the idea of wearing my burgundy FitFlop trainers and co-ordinating crossbody bag. It follows the “rule of three” that I often use in outfits – two main colours plus a third accent shade. These sweatshirts are available in lots of different colours, along with matching capri sweatpants. Take a look and let me know what your favourite colour is!

Acegolfs are offering a 20% discount on all orders with the code K20Stylesplash!

Acegolfs sweatshirt* | River Island jeans | FitFlop trainers (previous PR product) | Paul Costelloe bag (eBay) | Yaa Yaa London ring

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xThe Convenience of Projectors for a Dynamic Lifestyle

xThe Convenience of Projectors for a Dynamic Lifestyle

As we grow old, we always want to do things the easy way, it could be about work, a simple meal prep, and even entertainment. People want to make their lives easier and more efficient, whether at work or during leisure time.

For instance, it’s typical to watch TV to relax, but we’re not always on our sofa, we could be in our room or outside, and it’s expensive to buy another one, right? One gadget that has gained popularity for its usefulness is the projector. Projectors like the triple laser projector 4K and the 4K mini portable projector are changing how we enjoy entertainment, work, and socialise. Let’s explore how these handy devices can fit into a fast-paced lifestyle.

A New Way to Experience Entertainment

For many people, projectors are linked to movie nights, but they can do much more. If you enjoy sports, and classic films, or want to watch your favourite TV shows on a bigger screen, projectors offer a special viewing experience that TVs can’t match. The 4K mini portable projector is an excellent option for high-definition quality on the go.

You can easily watch a movie outside in your backyard or create a private theater in your living room without much effort. These projectors are portable and compact, fitting into any lifestyle—whether you’re at home, on a weekend trip, or visiting family and friends.

The triple laser projector 4K provides impressive sharpness and clarity. Its vibrant colours and detailed images make every viewing enjoyable, whether you’re watching a big movie, a sports event, or your favourite TV series. If you like the idea of an outdoor movie night but want to avoid a bulky TV, a portable projector is the perfect choice.

Perfect for Work and Play

Projectors are not just for entertainment; they can also improve your work. Whether you are presenting at a business meeting or speaking at a social event, projectors allow you to share visuals and information easily, without a traditional computer screen. A 4K mini portable projector lets you create professional presentations or slideshows wherever you go. You can easily set up a meeting in a hotel room, café, or client’s office.

This flexibility is especially helpful for anyone who juggles family and work tasks. You can quickly set up a presentation or discuss ideas with colleagues without worrying about limited space or bulky equipment.

Compact, Convenient, and Versatile

One important feature of modern projectors is that they are compact. Many, like the portable pocket projector, are small enough to fit in a bag or even a pocket. You can take them anywhere for work presentations, fun activities, or a spontaneous movie night. Having a projector that fits easily into your daily routine without taking up much space is very convenient.

With portable projectors, you can use them in many different places. Need a projector for a family gathering? Set it up in the living room or take it outside to project onto a garage door or wall. This flexibility is great for people who like to be ready for any occasion. Whether it’s showing photos to friends or enjoying an outdoor movie on the weekend, a portable projector makes sure you’re prepared for anything.

More Than Just Watching Movies

Projectors are not just for entertainment and work. They can also improve your hobbies and personal interests. If you like photography, arts and crafts, or DIY projects, projectors can help bring your ideas to life. For example, you can use a projector to display designs or blueprints on a wall, making it easier to trace or scale your work. You can also use a projector for visual references while working on crafts or for sketching.

If you enjoy creating or learning new things, projectors can expand your options. Whether you are an artist, a collector, or someone who likes to share knowledge, projectors make it easier and more practical to pursue your passions.

Affordable and User-Friendly

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to find a good projector. Thanks to new technology, there are affordable options that still come with great features. Setting up and using these projectors is easy, so even if you aren’t very tech-savvy, you can manage it. Most models come with simple instructions, and many support wireless connections, so you don’t need complicated cables or adapters.

These budget-friendly projectors are perfect for everyone, not just tech lovers. They can help improve daily life, whether you need to give a work presentation or enjoy a relaxing movie night at home.

Key Takeaways

Having a projector can make your life easier. Whether you use a high-quality 4K projector for movies or a small portable projector for work or fun, these devices offer convenience and flexibility. They are great for entertainment, work, and hobbies. More people are using projectors to simplify and improve their everyday experiences. By adding a projector to your routine, you can enhance your entertainment and work, all while enjoying the benefits of a powerful tool.

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Letter Pattern Shirt and Trousers + Style With a Smile Link Up

Letter Pattern Shirt and Trousers + Style With a Smile Link Up

Do you recognise this print? If it looks familiar, you probably remember seeing me wear these trousers with the matching jacket in this post. Although I have no record of ordering it, the matching shirt also arrived in the parcel. Not that I’m complaining…I think I actually prefer it to the jacket. The cut of the balloon sleeves is great and balances out the proportions of the outfit. The fabric also feels a little heavier, meaning it hangs nicely.

It was difficult to style this letter pattern shirt and trousers in a markedly different way to the suit…

I love bold prints, but the only downside to them is that people really notice them, so it’s not possible to repeat wear them too often. It was difficult to style this letter pattern shirt and trousers in a markedly different way to the suit. Although I stuck with the same red trainers and bag, I layered a gilet over the shirt. I could have opted for a red cardigan or maybe a white blazer if I had one. But the gilet keeps the sleeves on show and also prevents me from overheating (that’s happening more frequently lately!).

I’m looking forward to pairing this shirt with jeans and a red or black blazer for a more casual look. And of course, I can wear the jacket and trousers separately with block colours for more styling options. That’s the beauty of suits and co-ords!

How would you wear this print? Would you wear the pieces as separates or together?

StyleWe shirt* and trousers* – get 18% off all StyleWe purchases with code Emma18 | Adidas trainers | Damson Madder gilet

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