How to wear a Slip Dress in Winter * Layered Coats

I'm in a Blue colour mood today.
Wintery with a touch of metallic.

Like a (sub)urban Icequeen 👸.
{An Urban Icequeen would have been much cooler I'm sure!}

I'm styling my summer slipdress again today with some winterly layers and a double jacket situation.
Cosy.

What I Wore this Week #WIWTW

Welcome to another glimpse into what I've really been wearing this week.

The Good.
The Bad.
And the downright Grotty!

(On my grottiest day (Thursday) there was almost a major mishap... Read more about it HERE)

Winter Hat and a Camel Coat

Wearing this outfit gave me so much pleasure!
It's made up of many elements that I LOVE to wear.
Colour, texture and interest.
Warm and comfortable.
Traditional but still individual.
A perfect Winter look!

Shabby to Chic in 2 Minutes!

Oh dear!
What happened here?

Picture the sorry scene...
Earlier today I was dressed as you see below.

{When I say 'dressed' I mean that there were clothes on my body... that's as far as it went towards being an outfit}

• Joggers (not even cool ones).
• A gent's jumper (nice enough but hardly chic).
• Some fluffy socks and questionable clogs.

Oh my!

I'm enjoying a cuppa and getting my chore list organised when I suddenly remember that I have an appointment and I need to leave NOW.

O. M. G!

I needed to be dressed, presentable and out of the door 5 minutes ago.
Disaster!

DEEP BREATH...

Now is not a good time to panic.

On the plus side, I'm showered and my teeth are brushed.
Yes, my hair is a fluffy disaster with a daft clip but it is winter, so hats are acceptable attire (thank goodness).

It's freezing cold and of course, I could easily slip out of these joggers into skinny jeans but the truth is I don't want to!

(Even if I had the time I couldn't face peeling off these layers and getting chilled.)

I need to do something and make it snappy!

How to go from a sloppy mess to 'dressed' in 2 minutes flat!

1. Add a quality layer

So, you've been caught short?
Maybe you're in a scabby jumper and a pair of dubious joggers.
What can you do?

Add some layers and disguise your style misdemeanours!
I've popped on a velvet blazer, belted it and threw on a long wool coat over the top.
It's an interesting texture and detracts from my gents jumper just enough.
The long coat hides my offending joggers.
Phew.

A leather jacket or a wool blazer would work just as well, especially if your joggers are slightly less offensive than mine!

2. Add a decent shoe

Joggers and heels look AMAZING.
BUT...
I'll not be jumping on board that trend for 3 reasons.

• They'll kill my feet
• It's too cold
• My joggers are grey and a bit baggy at the knee... not chic, even with a heel.

I've opted for over the knee boots paired with cosy legwarmers.
The legwarmers are warm but they also hold the baggy jogger knees in place.
Result!

3. Pop on a Lip!

What's the easiest way to look dressed?
Add a lippy.
I had 30 seconds to do mine but I could have done it en-route if needed.

It's amazing how a lipstick can transform your face from disaster-zone to decent.
My tip would be to forget a perfect finish and simply apply with a finger for an effortless and casual feel.
Easy peasy.

4. Wear a HAT

Thank goodness for hats, eh?
Winter allows all-day-long-hat-wearing and eliminates the need for any hairstyling or management.
As someone with hair that does it's own thing (even when I try to tame it) wild waves are the norm so even without the hat I could have gotten away with a quick mess up and maybe some hair oil?
As it was this beret did all the hairstyling I needed.

Job done!

Have you ever had to leave the house in a questionable outfit like this one?
I'd love to hear how you would have got yourself dressed in 2 minutes?

{Shhh....I've walked the dog in a long puffa and wellies over my PJs a few times!}

WOOL COAT: Charity Shopped
VELVET BLAZER: Topshop (past season)
SNOWMAN & SNOWFLAKE BROOCHES: *Eternal collection
STAR PIN: Very old!
CASHMERE JUMPER: Charity shopped from the gent's section!
JOGGERS: H&M
LEATHER BOOTS: Vintage 1991!
BAG: Charity shopped
LEATHER BELT: River Island

What I Really Wore This Week (a bit of a cheat!) #OOTD

Hello and welcome back to another "What I Wore This Week".
It's a sneak peek into my real (and not so perfect) style life.

Every week I'm sharing what I really wore each day.
The good.
The bad.
AND the downright ugly!

I must admit that this week has been a bit of a cheat.
If you have an eagle eye you'll probably have noticed that I didn't post a "What I Wore" last weekend.

This is because I've not been feeling too great recently.
I'll not bore you with the details, all you need to know is that I've mostly been wearing joggers, fisherman's jumpers, zero makeup and scruffy hair.
Or should I say scruffier than normal hair!
Not very chic or stylish.

However, despite my jogger-wearing antics I have managed to venture out of the house occasionally in a selection of outfits.
When I say "outfit" I mean a coloured coat and a hat.
I've also spent a lot of my time sporting a red lip in order to give me a bit of a kick up the style backside.

So, this week is not so much a "What I wore this week" but a "What I wore recently"...

Let's get stuck in!

Wardrobe Tour part 3... the finale!

This is the final instalment of my wardrobe tour and I've saved the best until last!
The final wardrobe instalment is my second wardrobe and it's full of my favourite things.

• Coats
• Jackets
• Bags 
• Shoes

I have more coats and jackets than I do any other individual item (apart from socks... I have a thing about them.)
Coats and jackets are an essential part of any Scottish outfit regardless of the season!

See part 1 of my wardrobe tour (with loads of organisation tips and tricks) HERE.
See part 2 of the tour HERE.

Let's dive right in and take a look...

My Wardrobe Tour Part 2

Welcome back to the second part of my wardrobe tour.
(Nope... the wardrobe in this image is not mine!)

Back in the real world...
In the previous instalment, I talked about 4 ways you can organise your wardrobe more efficiently (see that post HERE) and always have something to wear.

In this post, I'm simply going to show you the rest of my things in my main wardrobe.

Let's have a nosey, shall we?

Black Pleated Leather Midi Skirt & Blue Maxi Coat

Today I'm sharing an outfit I wore last week when the weather was a little warmer and my layers were down below 5... 😀
3 to be exact.
It was almost a WARM winters day (10 degrees) and it felt great!

How to Copy a Catwalk Look with No shopping!

On today's Outfit Thief I'm taking inspiration straight from the catwalk.
The outfit in question is from Lanvin's AW19 show.

Of course, I'm not exactly copying the look because I don't own any Lanvin pieces and I don't intend to do any shopping.

I'm using the Lanvin inspiration to recreate an outfit that uses pieces I already own and also (more importantly) suits me and my life.

Here's my style inspiration:

Image: Vogue.com

This Outfit is from the Lanvin 2019 AW collection so it's (relatively) hot off the catwalk and certainly relevant for this season.

I love everything about it.

The colour palette.

The bold shapes.

The richness of the mix of fabrics.

Even the model herself is taking my breath away.

I wish I could head to Lanvin and buy the whole shooting match but that's not happening so let's take this outfit to pieces and make it our own!

There are 4 BASIC elements of any look:

1. The Feeling 

When I say "Feeling" I mean the overall Vibe or Mood of a look.

The vibe of this look (for me) is County glam.

There is an outdoorsy mood... despite not being very practical for outdoor life!

There is also a smartness to the look but it still feels effortless and casual.

It's screaming "quality fabrics!" too, isn't it?

Wool.

Cashmere.

Leather.

Silk.

No flashy or brash branding just a luxe look.

2. The Shape

I love the shape of this outfit.

The slim-fitting bottom half and the oversized (and layered) top half.

There is softness from the tartan fabrics BUT structure from the jacket, especially with that nipped-in area under the bust.

I'm also drawn to the sexiness brought by the bare skin at the decollete.

A beautiful touch, especially with that choker.

3. The Colour Mood

Oh, my giddy Aunt!

These colours are driving me crazy... I LOVE them!

That rich autumnal palette.

The delightful tartans.

Those cosy and comforting shades that blend together so effortlessly.

Silky smooth styling.

Like a warm colour hug!

The colour mood is my favourite element.

4. The Styling Tweaks

Ah, those subtle little "somethings" that make any outfit look AMAZING.

Here there is that subtly sexy oversized blazer that has been nipped in at the narrowest part of the body and is showing just a little skin at the chest.

The casually draped cape and wrapped skirt over those skinny trousers.

The contrasting and grounding black textured ankle boot.

A delight all round!

It's the little things that make the BIGGEST difference.

How I made it my own:

Let's start with the star of the show (for me), her jacket.

My jacket isn't rust (or oversized) BUT because the other elements of my look are tonally different it works well for the outfit I'm wearing.

Her colour palette is much richer and warmer than mine.

My colours are clearer and cooler.

(Much as I prefer her palette I have to work with what I have.)

You could wear any double-breasted blazer you own in whatever colour you like.

You could also wear a tartan one if you're lucky enough to own one!

To get those mixed tartan vibes I'm wearing a tartan dress and a wool scarf.

Both in different patterns which I'm loving.

The scarf is pinned at my hip with a cute little brooch and didn't move at all.

You could simply drape a different tartan scarf around your neck.

Perhaps securing it with a belt?

The skinny brown trousers were tricky to copy as I don't own any BUT I decided to wear my long light tan boots instead.

I would have loved to have worn some skinny trousers and black ankle boots but it was a no-go.

With hindsight I wish I'd worn black ankle boots and popped on some skinny jeans instead BUT hey ho... we can't win them all can we?

Now for the big reality checks.

Bare chests and Scottish winters don't go together very well.

(Unless you're looking for a chest infection or pneumonia?)

My dress comes up to the neck and that's the way it had to be.

I've also popped on a polo neck... needs must!

The next reality check is the need for a hat, gloves and handbag.

Bare skin and nowhere to put my purse is not an option.

I had so much fun recreating this outfit however I must tell you that when I went out I put a heavy navy wool coat over the top of everything and wrapped the scarf around my neck the good old-fashioned way.

I was simply too cold for such drapery!

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this Outfit.

Would you wear it?

What about the boots?

Do you think I should have gone for the black?

Have your say by leaving a comment or get in touch HERE.

Winter Wardrobe Tour: Part 1 * How to Organise your Closet

Hello and welcome into my wardrobe.
(Pssst... that clean white space is NOT it!)

It's going to be fun to share some of my secrets.
Some things might even come as a surprise to you!
Let's find out, shall we?...

What I REALLY Wore this WEEK! #ootd

Hello and welcome back to another "What I Wore This Week".
It's a sneak peek into my real (and not so perfect) style life.

Every week I'm sharing what I really wore each day.
The good.
The bad.
AND the downright ugly!

It's been a funny old week... nothing like normal BUT don't worry, I'll not be boring you with the details.
I will, however, share the outfits I wore to live it!

MONDAY

Mondays being Mondays meant I needed colour and cheer!

Happy patterns and cosy textures were the order of the day.

GREEN POLONECK: Matalan (last year)

STRIPED JUMPER: Boden teens (old)... see it styled here.

TEDDY COAT: Next (past season)

JEANS: Levis (old)

BLACK LEATHER BOOTS: Dr Martens (last year's)

TUESDAY

I featured this outfit in its own post on Thursday... see the full details HERE.

TROUSERS: White Stuff (Charity shopped)
WOOL JUMPER: Mint Velvet (old and now donated... read the original post to find out why!)
PONCHO: Older than a very old thing!
BROWN LEATHER BOOTS: Old
FELT HAT: Old... from M&S if I remember correctly.
LEATHER BAG and GLOVES: Charity shopped for £3 and £1 respectively!

WEDNESDAY

More running about... comfort was the order of the day and a pop of cheerful colour!

WOOL COAT: Boden Teens (very old)

ORANGE ROLLNECK: Kettlewell (old)

PURPLE WOOL BERET (just seen): Ancient!

CREAM CORDS: Topshop

PATENT BOOTS: Vagabond (old)

THURSDAY

I was outside on this wet and windy day.
Fresh air and exercise are good for the soul (and the butt!)

TARTAN PUFFA: Boden (old)
GRET HOODY: H&M x Pringle
BLUE LEGGINGS: Wobuk
BLUE TRAINERS: Adidas (a gift)
CASHMERE HAT: Old

FRIDAY

Chilling at home.

(My eyebrows are almost as chunky, and unruly, as this vintage wool jumper!)

BLACK COATED JEANS: Tesco (a few years old now)
WOOL JUMPER: Charity shopped (I'm in love with this!)
GREEN ROLLNECK: Kettlewell (old)

SATURDAY

A good friend took me out to the big city so I was wrapped up warm.
A classic (for me) look.

(How I manage to look like I have a cat hair on my shoulder is a mystery...??)

WOOL COAT: BHS (charity shopped and old)
SWEATSHIRT DRESS: Boden (past season's)
ORANGE POLNECK: Kettlewell (old)
WOOL BERET: Old
LEOPARD BOOTS: Miss KG (old)... see them properly HERE.

SUNDAY

The weather was so bad I couldn't even pop outside for a snap.
Indoor photos are not ideal.
Having said that, outdoor phone selfies are not much better!

BLACK PATENT BOOTS: Vagabond (old)
GREEN MERINO JUMPER: Vintage (charity shopped)... see it HERE.
BLACK COATED JEANS: Tesco (old)

Which (if any!) of these looks would YOU wear?

Feel free to leave a comment or get in touch HERE.

Layered Knits * Styling a Poncho in Winter

Today I'm cosying up in some layered winter knits.

This is certainly not a particularly modern or edgy look BUT it's full of personality and fun.

{Albeit the personality of Clint Eastwood according to my husband!}

Finding a New Winter Jacket | Hidepark Leather

Welcome to the Autumn/Winter selection from my leather jacket search.

See how I got on in my quest to find that perfect Spring/Summer leather jacket HERE.

I'm on a mission to shop less.
No throw-away fashion for me!

I plan to invest in pieces I LOVE and that play an important role in my wardrobe.
I'm determined to find quality pieces that I'll be able to wear for years to come.

Consequently, I've been politely declining many more collaboration proposals.
Mostly because I didn't feel the need to add to my wardrobe or the want to share the pieces with you.

However, today is different.

Today is all about the Leather Jacket and I'm happy to share these with you.

Leather jackets can be worn all year round (especially if you live in a colder climate like Scotland) and this year I'm on a mission to find a Winter Warmer to add to my collection.

Today I'm trying on some new styles and will hopefully find something that fits the bill.

I hope that while I'm having a look around it might help you to find something perfect that fits into your wardrobe too.

Of course, leather jackets are a great investment.
If you choose a fuss-free style or a classic shape, a leather jacket will never date and will last for years.
If you look after your leather it will look after you.
Some pieces even get better with age.
Many will make their way down the generations.

(I know my daughters have their eye on a few of my things!)

The brand I want to share with you today is called Hidepark.
I have a couple of their jackets and they never let me down.

{This is a paid collaboration but I must tell you that I would NOT be recommending them if I didn't believe that you'd be delighted with anything you bought!}

Hidepark sells the most beautiful quality coats and jackets that are made to last.
I'm always blown away by the price tags too.

Each item is fully lined and finished with care.

Looking at the prices of the HidePark jackets I wonder why other retailers feel the need to rip us off.

Let's take a look at a few affordable Winter options...

(click on the titles to shop directly.)

1. HOLLY: Classic Aviator style

This jacket is AMAZING.
Incredibly warm.
Bang on-trend.
Chic and stylish.
Edgy and fun.
It does it all!

Who doesn't love a classic aviator style?

This fab style also comes in a few different colours if this colourway doesn't float your boat.

2. ANNA: Quirky, feminine and Chic

This blue jacket is so chic and elegant but still full of personality!

It would work with LOADS of different outfits, adding a little "something" to a classic style.

I love the quilted effect of the leather and the simple cut.
It's a cracker!

If you're not a navy lady there are a few other colours to choose from.

3. DORA: Practical and Cosy

I LOVE this jacket.
In fact, it's my favourite!

I couldn't believe how comfortable and warm it was.
The finish is so good and the price is even better!

I would happily have kept this lovely coat (it's right up my alley!)
BUT I have something very similar and I'm determined not to duplicate.

4. CLARA: Minimal biker/aviator style

This jacket is another classic.
It has a feminine feel and would go with anything and everything.
(I'd even throw it over a dress in the evening!)
I love the colour of this jacket plus the fact that the collar is detachable so you can change the look as the season's change.
Don't you just love it when a piece is versatile?
I love getting more bang for my buck... or punch for my pound!

5. LOMOND: Something different!

This jacket surprised me!
Not only because I wasn't expecting a tweed jacket to come from Hidepark BUT because of how much I liked it...(Read: fell in love with it!).
This green and pinky/purple colourway made me unexpectedly happy PLUS there are other colours to choose from too.

It's smart and classic and chic and all of those good things.

It's also made from wool which was surprisingly warm considering how neat and lightweight it.
A win from me!

6. GAYNOR: A little something extra

This is the piece I've decided to keep.

Not because it was my favourite (I loved Dora more!) BUT because of its versatility and practicality.

I'm channelling Farmer Giles here... and loving it!

Because it's sleeveless I can layer it over and under various coats and jackets in my wardrobe.

This can be a life-savour on the cold winter days (and nights).

A sleeveless gilet is also handy to pop on at home if it's a particularly cold day and you don't want your heating cranked up to MAX.

I've already been wearing and enjoying this gilet a lot already... see it HERE.

I'd LOVE to know which of these Winter warmers you would choose for yourself?
Or, what other colours you would pick?