7 Easy Ways to Look Better in Photographs

How many times have you heard someone say...

"I hate getting my photograph taken!"

Or

"I take a really BAD photograph, leave me out."

How many family (or group) photos do you have minus a certain person?

Are you guilty of being that camera dodger?

Most people don't like the way they look in photographs because we don't actually look the same as we feel inside.

Inside our heads we imagine we look a certain way, and sometimes real life can come as a bit of a shock!

{In my head I'm still 21 and the lines (and shadows) on my face don't actually belong to me!}

BUT...

What you see on camera is how you look to the rest of the world.
Whether you like it or not, it doesn't matter.
You can't change it.

Luckily, your friends and family think you are beautiful!
And, that's because you ARE.

ALL of us are imperfect.
Even the beautiful models aren't really as perfect as they seem.

It's all about making the most of what you have, and accepting who YOU are.

So, here I am in my gym gear (with nowhere to hide!) to show how the same (imperfect) body can look positioned (or posed) in different ways.

7 Simple Ways to Look Better in Photographs

1. Don't be photographed from Above, or Below

• Photos from Above = Bobble head, larger shoulders/arms/shelf-like bust and a shortened body/legs.
• Photos from Below = Odd shaped legs which can look thicker, attention on the belly, small head and disproportionate body.

2. Take a look behind you!

No one wants to be the person with the comedic sign post coming out of the top of their head, do they?!

3. Don't Lean

If you are sitting (or standing) for a group shot avoid leaning in (and back) at the edge of the group.
Get up and stand (or sit) between other people.
Relax your shoulders and smile.

(Check out this sour puss below!)

4. SMILE!

Everyone looks better smiling.
Fact.
Looking fed-up, bored or glum isn't pretty!
Pouting and looking 'moody' doesn't work (over the age of 20) either.
Get over the fact your face isn't what it used to be and smile regardless.

If you don't like your teeth just smile with your lips, and eyes.
Think of something (or someone) that makes you happy and forget about saying "cheese".

Smiling is always my default setting.
"Resting bitch face" doesn't do me any favours.

{I am exaggerating my grumpiness in the shot above, but you get the idea... awful!}

5. Experiment with angles

If like me (and most people) your face is a bit lopsided....or asymmetric if you want to be a polite about it... experiment to find your 'best' angle.
Try turning your face slightly, and see which side flatters.

6. Pose.... but relax!

Don't slouch or "huff" because you are being photographed (and don't enjoy it).
Make the best of yourself by relaxing.
Relax your shoulders, neck and jaw (give a little shake if you have to) but still pull up through your spine and show off your posture at it's best.

Having said that try not to pull-up too much or you could end up looking strained and a bit weird.... see some of the images below.
Some are too stiff, too slouchy or just awkward.

7. Forget about complicated poses

Don't worry about all of the posing 'Rules'.
Forget about...

• Crossing ankles.
• Hips up/down. 
• Weight in back/front leg.
• Arms here, there and everywhere!

Trying to think of the 'right' pose will cause tension which shows up in your face.
Plus, these contrived poses can easily end up looking a bit silly.

The MOST important thing is to accept yourself for who you are.
Hating the way you look doesn't make you look any better!
Hiding from the camera just stops you having fun, and deprives your loved ones of photos including you.

Remember that people love you wobbly bits, warts (or age spots) and all!
Just as you love them, and their imperfections.

Be kinder to YOU.

If all else fails.... try laughing!
Looking a bit goofy (and happy) is SO much better than hiding out of shot.

Do you avoid the camera?
If so, Why?
Please share any thoughts you have on this subject in the comments... or contact me.
I would love to hear from you!

3 Ways to add Individuality to a Formal Look

Expressing ourselves using makeup and fashion is fun, and an important part of who we are.

Your own personal style sends a message to the world (whether you like it or not) and we are lucky to be able to dress according to our personality, or mood.

{Mostly mood in my case! 😛}

However, sometimes we all need to dress for a specific occasion.
Whether it's a strict daily work environment, a special day out, or a one-off meeting.
Sticking to the "rules" can't always be avoided!

Luckily, even the most formal of occasions can still allow us to inject a little of 'ourselves' into our outfit.
No matter how subtle that nod to our personality is, it can make a HUGE difference to the way we feel.

While we are touching on the subject of the (style) constraints of certain situations I must stress that 'occasion appropriate' dressing is NOT the same as 'age appropriate' dressing.

In fact, I firmly believe in NEVER dressing age-appropriately.
I find the whole idea patronising, and insulting.
Suiting our body shapes (and colouring) is a much better idea!

We are very lucky to live in a time when society no longer expects us to look a certain way at a certain age.
(Remember when 30 was considered old?)
Anything goes in the modern world!

However, being occasion appropriate is sometimes essential... regardless of age.
BUT, you don't have to leave your personality at home when a more serious occasion arises.
A few touches can personalise even the most stuffy of looks!

I needed this outfit to strike a good balance between formality and individuality.
I wanted to portray confidence, and "fake" being totally in control of the situation.

Nothing says "Of course I know what I am doing." better than red!

For me, this red dress is the perfect balance between a formal style and a fiery personality.
Superbly comfortable, flatteringly cut, modestly styled and beautifully made.
What more could you ask for?

I kept things formal with simple t-bar shoes (in a darker tone than my dress)
and popped on a pair of sheer tights, for that polished look.

Unfortunately, I couldn't find my structured burgundy bag (I worry that I might have given it away!) so I had to use this checked tote as a last minute substitute.

It's a lovely bag but NOT as professional as I was looking for.
{Luckily, it spend most of it's time on the back of a chair away.}

A bold, but 'classic' brooch finished things off nicely.

3 Subtle Ways to Add Personality to a Formal look

1. Pick Colours you Love

Classic shapes are much more interesting to wear when you choose a colour you enjoy.
It doesn't have to be as bold as this red dress, even a hint of colour can work beautifully.
(Forest green, plum, royal blue and rich teal are all delicious shades.)

2. Add a Statement Accessory

I chose this bold vintage brooch, but choose what you love just keep it 'classic'.
Leave novelty pieces (like this or this!) for another day.

3. Consider the Details

Subtle signature perfume.
A manicure, using shades you love!
Simple statement makeup... I chose natural (looking) skin, neutral eyes and a red lip.
All of these touches are personal to YOU.

An extra thought...

What about hosiery?
Love them or loath them, tights can help make you look polished and your outfit finished.
They can really improve the look of your legs and the comfort of your shoes.
Just avoid cheap tights, or any that are showing signs of wear.
Cheaply made, or 'bobbly' tights really ruin the look of your legs... and your whole outfit!

What do you wear when you have to dress formally?
Do you still add your own touches?
What are they?

Please share in the comments.
I would love to hear from you!

MORGAN DRESS: c/o Alie Street
SHOES: Clarks
BROOCH: Vintage

Colour Blocking in 3 Easy Steps

Come on! Get your colour on.

Feeling good in your clothes is one of the best mood lifters!
If you feel good you automatically look good.
Fact.

Positivity breeds positivity.
Its like smiling...if you smile at people, people smile back at you which makes you smile more.
It's win win!

I defy anyone to feel miserable in their favourite colour.
For me (today anyway!) my colour fix came from a pair of bright yellow trousers.

Yellow is such a positive, happy colour.
Wearing yellow gives me a spring in my step, and puts a big smile on my face!

{Read about how I had to have these trousers HERE ,and the power of colour HERE.}

Today's outfit was inspired by the 'new' (Read : Not really new at all!) bold colour blocking trend that is going to be BIG in AW 17/18.

It all started with these fab shoes that I snapped up for a bargain price in the summer sale.
Comfortable and colourful... perfect!

I decided to play with the colours in the embroidery and clash some bold and bright hues... just for fun!

A red/rust jumper and a magenta bag went perfectly with my yellow trousers and these red shoes.

Well, in my opinion anyway!

A simple tan belt, mirrored glasses and blue toes finished things off nicely.

3 Easy Ways to Colour Block with Style!

1.  Use quality fabrics

Bold colours look better in good quality finishes.
Buy the best quality you can afford, but don't get ripped off!
Expensive does not always mean 'good'... be savvy.

Bold and bright items are often discounted heavily in the sales.
Snap them up then, and save your pennies!

2.  Keep the colours 'true'

Forget about 'toning things down' when it comes to clashing colour.
Commit to the boldness or don't bother!

3.  Keep the shapes simple

The more simple the shape (and design) of your pieces the bolder you can go with colour.
Too many details can make the outfit seem fussy.
Simple lines work beautifully.

Bonus cheat...

If you are really struggling for colour inspiration try pulling colours from a favourite patterned item, like a scarf or (in my case) shoes!
Use the colours within the item you love to build an entire outfit.
It's a great way to cheat!

Are you going BOLD this season?

What are your favourite colours to clash?

I would love to hear your combinations... and maybe even try them myself!

JUMPER: M&S

TROUSERS: Next...similar.

BAG: Charity shop... this one is cute!

BELT: Tkmax...similar.

SHOES: M&S... these plain ones are nice too.

GET THE LOOK

It's Not a One Trick Pony | Occasionwear for Everyday!

Some items we have in our wardrobes are very occasion-specific, aren't they?
Which is great (at the time) but then afterwards you wish you could enjoy wearing them a little more often.

{How many times have you considered dying or re-hemming a special dress?}

There is little point in having beautiful clothes hanging in a wardrobe gathering dust.

I certainly don't believe in saving 'good' things for special occasions.
Everyday deserves to be a celebration, however small.

So, when my husband commented...

"Wow, that's a beautiful dress, but it's a bit of a one trick pony, is it not?"

"What do you mean?"

"It's a dress you could only wear to a wedding or a fancy occasion, isn't it?"

Hmmmm...
I could see what he meant, this dress would look great styled up for an occasion, but I wanted to show him how it could be worn in a much more 'everyday' way!

The dress itself is such a comfortable item, on the body, that it would be a waste to save it for dressier occasions.
It's an all-day-everyday dress, in my book!

The dress comes in 6 different designs, and this particular pattern was calling out for something denim.
I wanted to wear the waistcoat from this post and a pair of gutties... like the ones in this post (that are still agony to wear!) but, I decided to style it somewhere in the middle.
An outfit between a wedding and popping to the corner shop!

A pair of well loved, neutral buckle sandals were just the ticket.
Casual but still 'done'.

Adding a slightly smarter version of a denim jacket elevated the look even more.
This one is denim coloured linen, and collarless.
Still easygoing, but more feminine and grown-up than the traditional denim style in this post.

A BIG bag was essential for my busy day... packed full of "stuff" I needed.
A slightly boho-feeling necklace finished things off nicely.

The lovely team at Alie street sent me this dress (along with another style which you will see soon) and I was thrilled when it arrived.
The quality is beautiful (much better than the jersey dresses I am used to) and they are also made in the UK.
A HUGE plus for me.
No sweatshop exploitation ... phew!
Read about their ethics HERE.

The best part?
I felt great!

{BTW... I was NOT paid to write this post, I just genuinely love this brand!}

'PIPPA' DRESS: c/o Alie Street.
SHOES: Clarks... similar.
JACKET: White Stuff... similar.
BAG: Bogner
NECKLACE: Charity shop

Do you like to wear your 'good' clothes on a regular basis?
Or, are they hanging in a wardrobe waiting for the next occasion?
Please share in the comments... or contact me.
I love hearing from you.

Red and Black | Summer Work Look

Red and black aren't very 'summery' shades are they?
But, they are the perfect colours for a smart work look.

The professionalism and 'pulled together' feel of black.
The powerful and confident vibe of red.
Add a neutral (and emotionally impartial) colour like grey, and you look like you mean business!

BUT,
How can these colours work during the warmer months?

An easy way to make darker shades more summer-appropriate is to add a touch of light.
White, cream (or other pale colours) work really well to brighten and lighten the look.
Bare skin (or bare 'looking' skin) has the same effect, regardless of  skin tone.

The 'light' in this outfit comes from a stripe within the pattern of the skirt, but it would be easy to add a white/light necklace, earrings or brooch.

Fabrics are also an important factor to consider.
Lightweight, sheer and draping fabrics give off that summery vibe.
As do smoother finishes.

This red top (for me) is the perfect balance between an easygoing t-shirt and a smarter 'work' top.
It's comfortable, but just smart enough to look work appropriate.

These sandals are one of my favourite pairs, and can add a bit of quirkiness to a more somber look.
Of course, open toes might not be appropriate for your work environment but, there are plenty of covered toe options out there to fall in love with!

This work outfit was topped off with a beautiful vintage magnifier, that belonged to my Husband's great-grandmother.

It is well over 100 years old!

I must say that it's an honour to be able to wear it.

It feels like something very special, and it goes with (almost) every outfit I put on!

After popping on this necklace I felt that simple stud earrings were all I needed to finish my look.

Do you wear black for work during the summer?

How do you style it to keep it fresh-feeling and summer appropriate?

I would love to hear about your favourite summer work wear colour combinations.

Please share them in the comments.

SHOES: All Saints...similar (open toes).... and similar with covered toes.... and on sale!
TOP: Topshop
SKIRT: F&F... this one looks great!
BAG: Dune... this one is a beauty.
NECKLACE: Vintage.... this one is vintage-style and looks sweet.

GET THE LOOK

Cool Summer Days | Khaki & Turquoise Outfit

This outfit is perfect for those cooler summer days.
The days where bare legs (and arms) are not an option... brrr.

The kind of days you need to add layers, but don't want to give up that summer vibe completely!

{We get plenty of days like these in Scotland.}

A great way to keep an outfit feeling 'summery' is to keep the colour palette light and bright.
However, sometimes a light palette isn't practical.
Depending on what your day has in store, light clothes may be an unwise option!

For me, more practical (and forgiving) colours were needed, so I decided to wear these khaki trousers.

A pair of khaki trousers are perfect for any time of year!
And, when teamed with different colours, can create various season-appropriate outfits.
Khaki is such a versatile colour.

These jeans are a decent weight, and provided enough warmth to allow me to get away with wearing a pair of chunky sandals.
Faking a more summery look.

{Boots would have been a more practical option, as my toes were suffering a little!}

Adding a bright turquoise vest top, with a floral pattern, kept the summer feeling going.

My cardigan was essential for warmth, but light in colour, and quite a 'drapey' summer-weight fabric.
Much more easygoing than a jacket!

{However, I did take my denim jacket with me... and a brolly... you just never know in Scotland!}

What were you wearing today, and why?
Please share in the comments...I would love to find out what determines your outfit choices where you are.

CARDIGAN: Zara... similar.
TROUSERS: Falmer... similar.
TOP: George... this one is pretty.
SHOES: Vagabond (on sale!)
CLUTCH: Linea... this is nice (and down to £11)

GET the LOOK... on sale!!

5 ways to cover-up on the beach, over 40 | PPP

This month Anna, Ann, Mary (our guest) and I are covering up on the beach.

Beach cover-ups are great for slipping over your bikini to grab a bite to eat at the BBQ, or a cocktail at the bar.

However, beach cover-ups in Scotland can be a totally different kettle of fish.
Scottish beach cover-ups tend to involve a fleece... or a waterproof!

So, in this post I'm showing you my "Real life on Elie beach" cover-up (above) alongside a beautiful (and a more traditional) kaftan sent to me by somerville scarves.

{I wasn't paid to write about any items featured in this post. I only talk about things I really like.)

This kaftan is the softest cotton, and a delight to wear.
As for this paper panama hat?
Well, I just love it!

I've hardly had it off my head since it arrived.
I'm sure it will be on the blog many times... if I don't wear it out first!

Of course this "Beach Outfit" hasn't seen a real beach yet.
My real-life beach outfit was certainly not as chic, effortless or elegant.

It involved lugging windbreaks, packed lunches, flasks of tea, soggy towels, and buckets and spades .... all while wrestling with an excited dog, and chasing hats down the windy beach!
Maybe a serene beach break will be my next holiday?
Hmmmm.....

KAFTAN & HAT: c/o Somerville Scarves

SHOES: c/o Vionic

BAG: Tkmax

SHORTS: Fat Face....similar.

SHOES: c/o Vionic
JUMPER: Charity Shopped....similar.

GILET: Joules

Mary from Mary Murnane.

This is such a serene and simple look from Mary.

So beautiful.

I want to step through the photo and join her!

Follow Mary on Instagram

COVERUP: Neiman Marcus

SLIDES: Zara

Anna from Anna's Island Style

Anna's strong swimmer's body is doing it's best to trick us into thinking she might be telling a porky pie about her 59 years!
This is how to rock a bikini and white ruffled minidress.... ageless and beautiful.
(Pop over to her blog to read more about the Loose Women campaign she is supporting.)

Follow Anna on Instagram.

BANGLES & HAT : Charity shopped

DRESS: ASOS

SANDALS: Primark
BIKINI: H&M

Ann from Kremb de la Kremb

Ann is no stranger to the beach, or the casual cover-up look.

Here she lounges with effortless ease in her casual fisherman's jumper.

A pile of books by her side.... I wish I could join her for a cold beer and an hour (or two) of chillin'.... (does anyone "chill" anymore?!)

Follow Ann on Instagram. 

SUNGLASSES: Forever21
JUMPER: H&M
Swimsuit & Flipflops: Target
CUT-OFFS: DIY
TOTE: Louella Odlie

What are you covering up with on the beach?
Sheer cool cotton?
Or, a warm fleece?!

Please share in the comments.
I love hearing from you.

5 Reasons I Don't Like Social Media.

Photo Credit: William Iven.

Social Media is an (almost) essential part of the blogging world.
In fact, it is fast becoming an essential part of any (first) world!

Of course, you can write a blog (and function as a human being) without connecting any social media channels but, it's unusual not to have at least a couple of social options for readers/friends to follow.

Unfortunately, I really don't like social media... at ALL!

I know I should be doing better, so I have been trying to engage more over the past couple of weeks.

If you would like to connect with me you can on the right sidebar...Pop over and say hello!

However, I have to admit that I still find checking social media more of a chore than a pleasure.

5 things I don't like about Social Media.

1. Like for Likes

This is just annoying.

"Hi, your blog (even though I've never looked at it) is great. Lets follow each other!!"

Erm.... no thanks.

2. Moaning

Moaning is boring.
Regardless of the subject.
{Even if it involves moaning about moaning 😝!}
Complaining about other people, or politics, or anything really.... Sigh.

Stop moaning and start doing!

3. Photos of a 'Perfect' life

This is a silly one that (mostly) makes me laugh, but it is still a pet peeve.
Photos of "My perfect life" are tedious.

• Perfect husbands/boyfriends/relationships.... give me a break!
• Perfect homes.... obviously no one actually lives there.
• Perfect holidays... must be quite boring if you have had time to get your phone out every half hour.
• Perfect children... ha ha ha ha ha...really?? Not unless the little darlings are sedated, or you are permanently sipping a large glass of wine!
• Perfect parties... If that party/event you are at is SO good than how have you got time (or inclination) to be on your phone?

4. Blatant follow / un-follow promotion

Companies (or brands) that follow you then almost immediately un-follow just to promote themselves.
Shameless.

5. Trolling and/or Stalking

This is simply pathetic.
Anyone who has such an empty life that they have to live it through someone else, either by following their every move or being abusive toward them, needs a slice of pity pie and should be ignored.

3 Good Reasons to Connect to Social Media

I have to concede that after my moaning (see point 2) I must hold my hands up and acknowledge the benefits of social media.

1. Far-flung Friends

I realise that many people use social media to keep in touch with far-flung friends and relatives, which it's undeniably great for.
A life-line in some cases.
Facebook is a popular choice for this.

2. News and Keeping Updated

Keeping up to date with news...whether it's world affairs, or your specific interest, is easy on social media.
Plus, you get a more diverse 'voice'... the opinions of others not just the big news corporation's angle.
Twitter is a great platform for this.

3. Connecting/Discovering like-minded people

This is main reason why I am trying to be better at social media.
I want to use social media to find more women like ME, who are interested in the things I like.
New connections from across the globe... more bloggers, more women over 40, more parents, more animal lovers, more beauty fans, more food lovers, more yoga fans... it's a pretty long list.

BUT, being on social media for hours each day frightens me and I won't do it.
I can't do it.

Some people have their phones in their hands all of the time...even during dinner!
I have even seen people looking at their phone recording a concert instead of actually enjoying the concert, and living the experience.
Scary stuff.
I want to do better but we must all draw the line somewhere, in order to keep our sanity.


What do you use Social Media for?
Are you guilty of spending too much time on these social channels?
Which platform is your favourite, and why?

I would LOVE to hear your thoughts and opinion on this topic.
Please share in the comments or DM me through any social channel....and I promise to get back to you!