where is harriet?

Stripes

2012-02-01T10:00:00.000Z

cami courtesy jan ahlgren, skirt courtesy clothing at tesco, shoes - bata, cardi - uniqlo, necklace and bracelet - vintage

Towards the end of last year Clothing at Tesco held their spring/summer press day, and although I couldn't go they very generously sent me their lookbook and a £30 gift voucher anyway. After seeing the beautiful lookbook I was determined to save the voucher until this skirt came into stock, and when it did I immediately ordered it.

I absolutely love the stripes - it reminds me of the Spring/Summer 2011 Prada collection, which I hated at the time but have totally warmed to. The only problem is my head is convinced that it's spring, and my body is saying 'woman - go put your tights back on!' brrr!

A Week In Jewellery

2012-01-30T10:00:00.000Z

Monday - vintage Coro floral necklace and sterling silver earrings. Shamefully I have owned this necklace for a couple of years now but I've never worn it until this week!

Tuesday - 80s vintage silver necklace and earrings - I always feel like a mayor wearing this!

Wednesday - vintage Whiting and Davis snake necklace - this got the most strange looks of the week but I love it. A plain dress and a statement necklace are such a good lazy outfit choice!

Thursday - vintage Whiting and Davis gold necklace. I stole this off my mum who bought it in the 80s from Rackhams, which was a department store in Birmingham at the time. I think it's House of Fraser now?! I've had it in my room so long though I'm hoping she doesn't want it back!

Friday -I was running out of ideas by Friday so I went with a plain black dress, and added these orange coral necklaces and a pair of earrings I bought in Portabello market for a bit of colour.

Saturday - this cuff makes me feel like I'm wearing armour, but unfortunately the metal is quite scratchy on the back, and I remember why I don't usually wear it! I'm wondering about painting the back with nail varnish, or putting some blue tac over the back to make it more wearable maybe?!

Sunday - an 80s end to the week. I love the combination of gold and silver together, though I know it's a major fashion faux pas! The necklace and earrings are old (vintage?) but the little studs are from H Samuel quite recently, in an attempt to stop my second set of ear piercings closing up, ick!

Last week I challenged myself to wear a different piece of jewellery every day. I have drawers full of beautiful things, and the truth is I'm pretty lazy when it comes to getting ready each morning, so jewellery is always an after thought. More often than not I wear the same combination for weeks, before seeing something new and sparkly in a shop and forgetting about all the lovely pieces I have at home.

It was a great way to force myself to think a bit more about what I wear each morning too, and definitely made getting dressed more exciting. If you are anything like me in being a perpetual hoarder of sparkly things then I challenge you to do the same and wear some of your stockpile of jewellery this week!

Lazy Sunday Links

2012-01-29T10:00:00.000Z

1. I'm not a country girl, but if it always looked like this I could be! 2. I adore Kelly Love's gorgeous collection which Paula featured. 3. Elsa's outfit makes me so happy, and she always looks so joyful in her photos! 4. Kris Atomic shared her topshop unique S/S12 photo 5. Krissy talks beautiful paper 6. Who doesn't love the amazing Peppy Miller from The Artist?

Online Magazines

2012-01-27T10:00:00.000Z

Recently I've become obsessed with online magazines. I love how beautifully put together they are, and how much creativity and time goes into each issue. These are some of my favourites - click on the picture to read the magazine.

1. Cellar Door is a gorgeous fashion etc magazine, it hasn't updated in a while but the blog still looks active and the past issues are beautiful.

2. Covet Garden. This is such a beautiful interiors magazine. I want to live in all the homes featured, possibly at once.

3. Rue magazine is primarily focussed on interiors, but also features all sorts of wonderful fashion and lifestyle things.

4. I don't know much about Alila magazine, but the styling and photography is just so amazing, I can't stop looking at all the photos!

5. Another living and lifestyle magazine, each issue of Anthology is a number of stories set around a central theme. The current one is the travel issue.

Are you an online magazine addict, or do you prefer print? Do you have any more recommendations to add to my list?

Art for Beginners

2012-01-25T10:00:00.000Z

When I passed my exams last September I got a small bonus from my work for passing my first 12 exams first time (only three to go now!). Rather than spend it on clothes or something temporary I really wanted to purchase a piece of art. I wanted to buy something that I would keep forever, and which I could look at every day and remember how hard I worked, and what I achieved because of it.

I spent quite a bit of time looking for the perfect picture, I even visited the Battersea Affordable Art Fair (newsflash, it isn't) but in the end I spotted this little watercolour and ink picture in the O3 Gallery in Oxford and I knew it was exactly what I wanted.

I don't know very much about the artist, her name is Flora McLachlan and she studied at Oxford, but I just love her magical style. I waited very impatiently for her exhibition to be over so I could finally get my picture home, and it is now happily sitting in my room and I love it just as much as I first did when I saw it in the gallery.

Have you purchased or received something that means a lot to you? I'd love to hear the story behind it.

Motel Heidi Dress

2012-01-23T10:00:00.000Z

dress courtesy motel, tights - h&m, shoes - dune

This is the happiest I've been with a set of outfit phoos in a while, which is mainly due to the insane flatteringness of the Motel Heidi Dress. It is just the perfect shape - high neckline, super slimming waist and gorgeous flowy skirt - I am in love. Again!

I realise pretty much every week I tell you about the latest piece of clothing I am in love with, terrible consumerist that I am, but this time it really is true love forever! Promise!

This is also the first time I've worn these tights, despite owning them for over a year. They were an impulse buy at H&M, curse them for displaying so many things right by the tills, and then having the longest queues in the world... Of course I got them home and could find absolutely nothing that went with them, but I kind of like the comination of the bright tights and bright dress together.

Lazy Sunday Links

2012-01-22T10:00:00.000Z

This week I... 1. fell in love with this all white house 2. was inspired to have a pink moment 3. wished I was crafty enough for this beautiful diy 4. got bored of my breakfast and went in search of something more exciting 5. fell back in love with backstage photography 6. continued my hunt for the perfect heidi braid

Happy Friday!

2012-01-20T10:00:00.000Z

1. Trying my first ever Pinkberry! SO delicious - officially my new favourite place for frozen yoghurt! (fyi one is my friend Reda's, I didn't eat two! Although I easily could have, if only the queue hadn't been so long...)

2. The Nicola Roberts editorial in Instyle this month. I have the biggest girlcrush on her! I love her music, her hair, her style, everything!

6. Wearing jewellery I haven't worn in ages. 7. Flat Whites. I had forgotten how yummy they are!

5. Toffee Apple in my Graze box. It's healthy, honest!

3. Finally getting my paws on the Tee and Cake dinosaur t-shirt. I decided I wanted it, and then it went out of stock. Then it came in again, and I wasn't sure, and then I saw it on Lucy and knew I had to have it, by which time it was almost out of stock again! Finally tracked one down in Westfield and miraculously it was the last one and my size! Fate! 4. My winnings from My Street Chic. They ran a competition on twitter asking people about their New Year Resolutions and I won! These nail varnishes came in the post last week.

8. Trying out all the smellies I received for Christmas. I love fruity smelling bath stuff. I almost never buy it for myself, but my aunt bought me a whole boxful for Christmas so I've enjoyed smelling fragrant all week!

Things that made me happy this week - what about you?

Take 10 Zine Shoes

2012-01-18T10:00:00.000Z

Sherin - Sarah - Sabine - Ellie - Me - Jen - Vicki - Paula - MJ - Suzie

dress - new look, cardi - uniqlo, tights - m&s, shoes courtesy zalando

Do you ever decide you hate something only to change your mind and discover you actually love them? Originally when clogs became popular again I absolutely abhorred them. I just did not get the appeal. And yet, when Zalando offered to send us all a pair of Zine shoes to style for this month's Take 10 challenge I was drawn to these. They're clog like, furry, and so very high, and yet I love them!

I styled them with quite a girly floral dress, as I love the combination of something light and floaty with such chunky shoes, and it has become my go to January outfit. Warm, snug, and comfy! Just don't ask me to walk down stairs in them, they are problematically high!

Desk Tour

2012-01-16T10:00:00.000Z

One of my projects over Christmas was to finally get around to tidying my desk, as inspired by Tracey Shutterbean's desk makeover at homefries.com. I finally got my second screen connected after a year of having a laptop (bad me!) which is making blogging so much easier already, but my main aim was to generally remove all the crap that was all over the surface so I can actually move my mouse!

I'm trying to get into the habit of using handcream regularly throughout the winter, so having my Burts Bees pot close to hand (haha, that was a pun there!) is so helpful. Along with that I am going to be really diligent in writing in my moleskine diary this year, in an attempt to be slightly less forgetful about everything so it's good to have space for that too.

My little robot and mini Ford Ka have been on my desk for ages - the robot was a present from my boyfriend and the car was from the first ever blog event I went to with Sherin absolutely years ago!

Are you the queen of organisation, or is your blogging space a hot mess? Any bets on how long my desk will actually stay looking this tidy?!

Lazy Sunday Links

2012-01-15T10:00:00.000Z

1. I love this sunny New York themed photoshoot 2. Is this former church not the most perfect home? 3. I love these 60s style pictures as well 4. This breakfast would be an amazing way to start the day 5. A beautifully photographed what's in my bag post 6. Given the cold spell this weekend I am definitely seeking inspirational layering!

Blair Waldorf Hair

2012-01-13T10:00:00.000Z

I am firmly of the belief that my new headband from Emin and Paul London makes me look exactly like Blair Waldorf. Please don't crush my dreams!

(Yes, I'm still obsessed with her. Shhhh!)

Vintage Blouse

2012-01-11T10:00:00.000Z

hat - urban outfitters, blouse - vintage, skirt - french connection, shoes - dune

I borrowed this vintage blouse off my mum today and fell in love.

The blouse itself was from a vintage shop near where I live, and has no label so I have no idea if it is actually vintage or just from last year. It feels practically unworn though, and very good quality, so I don't think it's last season primark or anything!

Sorry mum, not sure this one is going to make it back to you!

Little Things

2012-01-09T10:00:00.000Z

lipstick in ruby woo - mac, liquidlast eyeliner in point black - mac, double wear foundation in shell - estee lauder, hair clips - claire's accessories

I guess I can't deny the fact that it is January any more can I? I hate that going back to work/school feeling, and how far away the summer suddenly feels. It never seems to matter before December 31st, then suddenly sunshine and warmth is all I can think about!

This tends to lead to me taking comfort in retail therapy a bit more than usual - especially in little treats like hair accessories and makeup to brighten the day.

Are you feeling the January blues? How do you go about beating them?

Lazy Sunday Links

2012-01-08T10:00:00.000Z

1. Another year may have passed but I will never tire of looking at pictures of amazing couture 2. or amazing food blogs! 3. beautifully displayed flowers 4. and phography to fall in love with 5. cool new phone wallpapers 6. and sequinned dresses

River Cottage Vegetable Curry and Dhal

2012-01-06T10:00:00.000Z

I bought my dad Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall's River Cottage Veg book for Christmas, which I think he liked, although he seems to think that means I'm prepared to cook for him too... Still I'm counting my forays into vegetarian cooking as my 'new thing' for the week as per my New Year's Resolution so that's something!

I made Chickpea Tomato Ketchup Curry and Dhal both of which turned out quite well, although the Dhal was not spicy enough for me so I'd definitely add a bit more curry poweder next time. Also I accidentally added a tin of haricot beans to the curry intead of chickpeas, so the result looks an awful lot like baked beans! The worrying thing was how long it took me to realise... Maybe I'm not cut out for this cooking business!

ps As you can see I've been trying out the awesome free photolayouts from Pugly Pixel - what do you think? Pugly Pixel is my absolute favourite webdesign blog. It's amazing - you should definitely check it out, especially if you have photoshop or photoshop elements as it's got loads of great free tutorials and graphics.

The Dress

2012-01-04T10:00:00.000Z

dress - courtesy of tkmaxx, scarf - courtesy of moodys, shoes - dune, necklace and bracelent - vintage trefari

Quite often when a brand offers to send me something I pick the sparkliest most ridiculously over the top item I can see, on the basis that it's a good idea to choose something I wouldn't ordinarily buy. Sometimes this works out, but othertimes I just end up with something I never actually wear.

I decided to be sensible this time around, and when the lovely people at TK Maxx offered to send me an item of clothing, I picked this gorgeous black Tommy Hilfiger dress.

It's quite plain and simple but it fits like a dream. I can already tell it is going to be the perfect thing to throw on in the morning before work when I can't be bothered to think too much, knowing I'll look good all day. A few times people have emailed me asking for advice on what to wear to work, and I would definitely say you can't go wrong with a knee length fitted black dress. I have three, and they are definitely some of my most worn pieces of clothing, so this is a welcome addition to the gang!

In the Pink

2012-01-02T10:00:00.000Z

One of my favourite Christmas presents was this Chloe perfume. I was in boots with my boyfriend waiting for him to buy a razor (yawn) and wandered around the perfume section spraying about a million different perfumes on my wrists. About half an hour later I got a waft of something that smelt amazing and realised that it was one of the many scents on my arms! Cue me dragging him and my mum round all the perfume counters trying to work out which one it was that I actually liked!

After much sniffing and a very confused nose I discovered it was Chloe, and I love it. It's a perfect subtle rose scent. Feminine but not too girly, like me (hah... I wish!)

What's your current scent?

Lazy Sunday Links

2012-01-01T10:00:00.000Z

1. This cake recipe in video form brings back so many memories of my childhood with pineapple upside down cake! 2. These pictures make me shiver just looking at them 3. This is the perfect time to get shipwrecked on a desert island, mais oui? 4. If you haven't seen Elsie's wardrobe tour at A Beautiful Mess yet then you are in for a treat! 5. These photos almost make me think cooking outdoors is a good idea right now! 6. In praise of clutter!

New Year's Resolutions

2011-12-30T10:00:00.000Z

Sometimes I feel like I spend too much time wishing my life away. I'm not having any major crisis, don't worry(!) but I feel like this year I've spent too much time waiting for the weekend/next month/the time when I'm less busy/another day when I'm feeling more like it and it's not really the way I want to live my life.

So my New Year's resolution this year is to do something new every week. It doesn't have to be a big thing - I totally count cooking a new meal or visiting somewhere I've never been before, but I want to get to the end of each week and not just say 'oh, I didn't do much, just went to work, that sort of thing...' when someone asks me what I've been up to.

I am of the opinion that you don't have to achieve your resolution exactly to win the resolution game - it's enough that it changes the way you live, even a little bit, for the better. Last year I made a number of Blogging Resolutions and although I didn't achieve them all (blogging five times a week was never realistically going to happen!) I feel like having those goals to aim for did make me a better blogger this year.

So see you in a year, and hopefully I'll be able to tell you what a great one it's been - and what awesome things I've done! What's your resolution for 2012?

ps starting early my new thing for this week was to try a graze box - it's delicious! If you want to try one for free I have some freebie codes - email me and I'll send you one!

pps this is my 600th blog post! How ridiculously amazing is that?!

Best of 2011

2011-12-28T10:00:00.000Z

I have done a little round up thing of the year for the past two years, and so just to keep things neat here is the third (third!?!) year of posts in one handy summary. I forgot how long these things take to write - there are a whole lot of links down there!

As always to see all my outfit photos you can click on the 'outfits' button on the right, or alternatively just click here. To see all my Lazy Sunday Links posts you can click here. And to see all my 'best of' posts click the 'best of' button on the right, or just here!

I hope you've had a good year. Looking back on all these posts was a really nice experience. Sometimes you get to the end of the year and think 'what on earth have I done with the time?!' so it's good to have a reminder I didn't just sleep through 2011! I want to say thank you as well to everyone who has taken the time to read one, some or even all of my writings, I really appreciate it - you are all lovely!

January

Crumpled ~ What's in my Bag - Seasonal Edition ~ How to fold a Paper Crane ~ Sales Sales ~ The Januarys ~ Work Do ~ Clouds got in the Way ~ New Purse ~ The King's Speech ~ The Makeup Bag Post ~ Citigirl ~ The Women's Room ~ British Museum ~ Follow the Leader ~ Work Wardrobe Makeover ~ Monki ~ A Day of One's Own

February

What's New Pussycat ~ It's a Fashion Revolution ~ Photobooth ~ Weekend Buys ~ Matalan Summer 2011 Lookbook ~ Roses and Red ~ Dream Dress ~ Marsbar Rice Crispie Cakes ~ Couture Queen ~ Dishoom
~ A Photo an Hour ~ Jasper Garvida ~ Fancy a Snog ~ Bonnie Wright ~ Plain and Simple

March

Nude Nails ~ Take 10 Matalan Bag Challenge ~ Back to Black ~ Live Fast and Dye your Hair ~ Birthday ~ A Gift ~ L'Air Du Temps ~ Olivia Rubin for Dune ~ Take 10 Spoiled Brat Challenge ~ Stuff ~ Breakfast with Matalan ~ Manicure ~ Sail Away ~ Bertie Press Day ~ Maximillion ~ If you don't know me by now

April

Excellent Customer Service ~ Eight Steps to a Better Blogger Blog ~ Work It ~ Nine ~ Spitalfields ~ Take 10 Peacocks Dress Challenge ~ Keep on Running ~ Thinking of You ~ Put a Pin in It ~ I do like to be Beside the Seaside ~ PingPong ~ A hint of Pink

May

Taking photos of stangers ~ Pins and Needles ~ Where I'd rather be ~ Pop your collar on ~ Blogging for Busy People ~ Tabio ~ Fratelli's ~ A good book or two ~ Seeing Red ~ Hey Babydoll ~ Breakfast

June

Obsessed with Pinterest ~ Weather Vain ~ Dressed Up Nowhere to go ~ Rosettes ~ BarryM Crackle Effect ~ L'Arnacoeur ~ Take 10 Max C Dress Challenge ~ Matalan Style Challenge ~ Bits and Bobs ~ An Aussie Day Out ~ Romantic Rebel?

July

Matalan Autumn Winter ~ Red White and Blue ~ Instgram ~ Take 10 Stolen Thunder Challenge ~ Green Goddess ~ Brown Eyed Girl ~ I Heart Vegetables ~ Socks and Shoes ~ Homes and Antiques ~ Playtime

August

The Dream Queen ~ Cocktail Hour ~ Take 10 Debenhams Shoes Challenge ~ The Problem Child ~ Sweet and Spicy Salmon ~ Retail Therapy ~ How to Feel Pretty ~ Guess Who ~ Take 10 Lomography Challenge ~ Revision ~ Things that make me Happy

September

Style Icons ~ Making Plans ~ Marks and Spencer Challenge Day 1 ~ Day 2 ~ Day 3 ~ Day 4 ~ Day 5 ~ Day 6 ~ Day 7 ~ Moody Wednesday ~ Take 10 QVC Challenge ~ Makeup Junky ~ #susiesleavingdo ~ Readthon

October

Orange Obsession ~ Layout Love ~ A little bit of what you like ~ The first rule of book club ~ Grace Green ~ Jan Ahlgren ~ Cami ~ The Girl's Guide to Hunting and Fishing ~ Take 10 Next Challenge ~ Lady of the Manor ~ York ~ Oasis Argyll Street ~ A Day in a Dress

November

Tomato and Apple Chutney ~ Happy Aussieversary ~ Dorothy Parker ~ Wardrobe Remix ~ Take me to the Circus ~ Take 10 for Company Magazine ~ Vintage Reflection ~ Weekend ~ Anthropologie Winter 2011 ~ Sequins and Glitter ~ Glossybox ~ My Week with Marilyn

December

Home Alone ~ What's in my Bag ~ Tidy Up! ~ Work Outfit ~ Take 10 House of Fraser Challenge ~ The Morning After the Night Before ~ The Christmas Shopper ~ Heidi ~ This is Christmas - Emmy the Great and Tim Wheeler ~ Boxing Day

Boxing Day

2011-12-26T11:17:00.002Z

cardigan - mango, tee - monki, skirt - french connection, socks - dorothy perkins, shoes - schuh

Boxing Day, also known as the day after Christmas for those of you not blessed with this most wonderful of holidays, is possibly even better than Christmas day in my opinion. The presents have been opened, the tv has been watched, the food has been consumed, and on Boxing Day we eat leftovers, nurse our hangovers and rest.

Or at least I do! The rest of my family have gone to the sales (madness!) so I am drinking orange juice, wearing my new christmas clothes and snoozing in the living room. Bliss! Happy Boxing day to you - hope you are currently occupied with similar!

This is Christmas - Emmy the Great and Tim Wheeler

2011-12-23T10:00:00.000Z

Are you feeling Christmassy yet? I have had This is Christmas by Emmy the Great and Tim Wheeler on repeat since Amazon finally delivered my packages (twice, but that's another story!) and I'm starting to get into the spirit of things!

I'm not massively in to Christmas songs as I get so bored of the same music getting trotted out each year, so I love that I finally get some new ones to listen too! You can see the video for Home for the Holidays above - it's one of my favourites. I feel like it describes so perfectly that feeling of going back to your parents' house for Christmas.

What's your favourite Christmas song, if indeed you can stand any of them?!

Heidi

2011-12-21T10:00:00.000Z

Have you ever tried to take a photo of the top of your head? It's really hard fyi.

I have been growing my hair for a year and three months now, in the hopes that I will one day be able to do proper Heidi braids like Jo and Carrie, but it's still to short, woe! I have discovered that I can do a mini version by plaiting just some of the front part of my hair behind my ears, to create a heidi headband, if you like!

I have realised from these photos I need to get some smaller hairpins though - my ones show up really obviously - I didn't realise until I looked at these photos!

The Christmas Shopper

2011-12-19T10:00:00.000Z

hat - accessorize, jumper - river island, jacket - topshop, scarf courtesy of moody's, skirt - zara, brogues - dune

This is what I wore last week to go Christmas shopping. I'm all about the big snuggly jumper and the comfy shoes of course! This jumper I have worn so many times recently it's just so perfect and warm. I definitely need to invest in more knitwear given it seems to have got properly cold now! And also, y'know, do some washing...

The shopping was quite successful - I think I need to make one more quick trip to Oxford Street and then I'm done! I have ordered a few things online as well though, and they've yet to come which is slightly worrying considering they were due last Friday and the tracker claims they're really near by.... They are of course couriered by HDNL, so I'm not exactly surprised (thanks Amazon...)

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-12-18T10:00:00.000Z

1. The Lady Travels 2. A peek inside the wardrobes of some of my favourite fashion bloggers 3. I love seeing behind the scenes in photoshoots almost as much as the actual photos 4. How cool are these mysterious paper sculptures? 5. I'm obsessed with warming winter food at the moment. 6. Love these cute gift decorating ideas. Mine look nothing like this good!

The Morning after the Night Before

2011-12-15T12:44:00.000Z

Last night was my work Christmas party. Today is therefore filled with soothing things - the scented candle I won from Matt's blog, Eva Cassidy and wrapping presents.

Shhh, I'll be more lively tomorrow...!

Take 10 House of Fraser Challenge

2011-12-12T20:34:00.000Z

Dress courtesy House of Fraser, Jacket - Hobbs, Belt - H&M, Shoes - Bata

Sherin - Sarah - Sabine - Ellie - Me - Jen - Vicki - Paula - MJ - Suzie
(unfortunately due to problems with delivery not everyone could post today, and poor Ellie wasn't able to get her dress in time for the collage. Look out for everyone's dresses on their blogs in the next few days!)

This Take 10 we were asked by House of Fraser if we would consider letting them pick a party dress for each of us, rather than our usual method where we discuss with the brand what we are going to choose beforehand. I'm not a massive fan of surprises - I'd rather give (or receive) something someone truly wants than surprise them with something not quite right - but I have to admit I was curious. Could someone who'd never met me pick an item of clothing I'd love, just from reading my blog?

The answer unfortunately is no!

I'll happily admit when it comes to clothes I am incredibly fussy, and I know instantly what I like and dislike. From the age of about 12 I've been a nightmare to shop with as I can enter a shop, decide whether there's anything I like and be out of there within approximately seven seconds!

This dress unfortunately ticks none of my style boxes. It's empire line, v-necked, patterned and knee length. To another girl that might be perfection but it's just not me. I decided to style it as a work dress - as that's pretty much the only time I wear knee-length, and the jacket covers up the fact that as a relatively well endowed woman without it the world can see my bra!

That is the one thing that bugs me about this dress. I'm fine with the fact that it's not my style - plenty of women would love it I'm sure, but I do wish it wasn't so low cut, to the point that I have to wear something under or over it to look decent. So many shops do this and I find it really annoying. Sometimes I don't want to have to wear a strap top under my dresses to cover up you know? I just want to wear the dress!

Do you love surprises, or are you a keep-the-gift-receipt kind of a person?!

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-12-11T10:00:00.000Z

1. I am jealous of anyone who can carry off prints 2. I love this idea - a tweed run - how awesome? 3. The perfect comfort food 4. An amazing studio tour 5. Love Susie's moodboard with volume 6. Totally craving milkshakes right now!

A Work Outfit

2011-12-09T10:00:00.000Z

Blouse - French Connection, Skirt - Zara, Pearls & Belt - Vintage, Shoes courtesy Clarks

This is what I'm wearing to work today - with a big cardigan over the top of course, brrr it's cold! As promised my super high clarks shoes are getting some wear, even if it's only on days when I know I don't have to walk too far... They aren't uncomfortable, but they are high and it takes more effort to walk in them than my extra comfy brogues which are my usual workwear choice!

Tidy Up!

2011-12-07T10:00:00.000Z

Do you ever get the urge to tidy up, and you just can't rest until you do? I'll admit it isn't a common occurance(!) but every so often I just have to organise my wardrobe/sock drawer/makeup and I always feel so much more relaxed when everything is tidy.

It does mean that I suddenly realise how much stuff I have which I don't use though - which is not such a great feeling. This week's tidy session has unearthed all the things I compulsively buy and store away - primarily any sort of beauty product on 3 for 2 (everything in my bathroom is in lots of threes!) and too many pairs of coloured tights and socks.

Oh, and the tidy up of my wardrobe revealed that I own roughly 1/3 work clothes, 1/3 weekend clothes and 1/3 party dresses, despite the fact I wear my work clothes about 70% of the time, weekend clothes about 30% of the time, and party dresses about 0.005% of the time! Perhaps I need to step away from the sparkles - but they're so much more exciting!

Are you a bit of a hoarder? What do you buy and save for 'later'?

What's in my bag...

2011-12-05T16:08:00.001Z

What's in my bag posts are one of my favourite things to read, and it's been about a year since I've done one myself so I thought it was about time for an update!

I bought this silver (although it looks gold in these photos...) bag a few weeks ago, primarily as a laptop bag. My old laptop bag fell apart on the side of a dual carriageway on an industrial estate somewhere outside Loughborough, in the dark and on my own - I could have cried! So I had to do an emergency shopping trip and chose this bag in River Island primarily for the sturdy looking handles!

It's a pretty good size for most things, although I'd love it even more if there was a small inside pocket for essentials like my oystercard instead of having to hunt around for it in the bottom somewhere everytime I need it.

Essentials - I still love my Moleskine diary - I much prefer flicking through its pages to looking things up on a screen, Nicole Farhi glasses without which I cannot see, Sudafed (I'm fighting off a cold at the moment with a combination of sudafed and force of will!), Urban Outfitters purse, Oystercard, iPhone, I never travel anywhere without at least one calculator, ditto one of many Primark umbrellas - this is England afterall, memory stick for datastorage needs - I have a ton like most people I think and can never remember what is saved on which one!

Makeup - Estee Lauder lipsticks in RoseTea and Plumberry, fold up mirror, Boots lipsalve, Topshop blusher, FC5 handcream which came in the November glossybox. It smells really nice, although I've no idea if it is working or not!

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-12-04T15:00:00.001Z

1. It's slightly late for an autumnal fashion shoot but I love this anyway 2. Gorgeous inspiration from Elsa 3. One day I will own a house with a swing in it 4. Some truly stunning shop window displays 5. The perfect pink outfit 6. and the most beautifully put together Christmas gift guide

A bit too much of a Sunday for me today - didn't quite get these ready in time for my usual Sunday morning post but better late than never! As always click on the pictures to take you to the articles.

Home Alone

2011-12-02T10:00:00.000Z

Being home alone for the evening means eating home made soup left by my mother and catching up on blogs at the kitchen table. What do you do when you have the house to yourself?

My Week With Marilyn

2011-11-30T10:00:00.000Z

all photos via michelle-williams.net

Off to watch My Week With Marilyn tonight with my mum at the cinema, I'm really excited to see it!

I am hoping it's as good as I want it to be though. I've been looking forward to seeing it for ages, and I absolutely love Michelle Williams, and sometimes I get too excited by things and go in with too high expectations. Fingers crossed!

Glossybox

2011-11-28T10:00:00.000Z

I very kindly got sent a November box by the lovely people over at Glossybox. I'm sure you've read about glossybox already, and I'm no good at makeup reviews so I shan't put you through that - but I am enjoying trying out all the product minitures inside.

When I last saw Lil she described a glossybox arriving as like Christmas - and it is so fun getting a beautifully wrapped parcel with no idea what you are going to get inside! I'm not really a very make-uppy person so I probably wouldn't subscribe myself, but I definitely enjoyed the experience, and I am tempted to get just one more... just to check!

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-11-27T10:00:00.000Z

1. This is such a lovely DIY idea 2. I'd like to go to Amsterdam 3. Amazing video of Ellen Von Unworth's shoot for Lula 4. One day Miu Miu, one day we will be together, but until then would you please stop being so darn cute?! 5. mmmmbaked apples. Yes please! 6. This is cool.

Hope you are having wonderful Sunday!

Sequins and Glitter

2011-11-25T10:00:00.000Z

image 1 & 4 motel, image 2 & 3 zara

I'm a little bit obsessed with sequins at the moment. I don't think my inner magpie will be able to rest until I own sparkly! The Motel lookbook Selina sent over a couple of weeks ago certainly isn't helping either!

I'm pretty sure I read somewhere sequins are a neutral...

Anthropologie Winter 2011

2011-11-23T10:00:00.000Z

Signing up to get the Anthropologie catalogue delivered to my door was definitely a mistake... The winter 2011 landed on my mat last week and I want basically everything. It is so beautifully photographed it hurts.

The faux-vintage typewriter which attaches to your iPad may be a little much though... or maybe not - I kind of want a gramophone for my iPod! Alas they aren't available in the UK, which is probably just as well - I think I get more excited by homewares than clothes sometimes!

(Not that I'd say no to any of the clothes either!)

Weekend

2011-11-21T10:00:00.000Z

On Saturday I went for a run in the morning, pottered around at home, ate ratatouille and bread for lunch and went for a walk to the Amnesty International book fair with James. I came home with a book of eighteenth century poems for £1! Obviously we watched the Xfactor in the evening, with gin...

On Sunday James and I went for lunch at Dishoom, then he had to go home so I wandered round Covent Garden for a while and bought some banana scented handcream - it smells really good! In the evening I had a bath and caught up on yesterday's Pan Am episodes on iplayer.

What did you do this weekend?

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-11-20T10:00:00.000Z

1. Can't wait to go ice skating this winter! 2. I love this christmas present idea 3. Avocados are my favourites 4. I love all the photos I've seen from the Chanel windows at Printemps, but I saw the cherry blossom girl's first 5. My work christmas party is 20s themed this year - I am so enjoying looking at inspiration for my outfit at the moment! 6. This article perfectly sums up why Sandra's blog is the best!

Vintage Reflection

2011-11-17T10:00:00.000Z

To celebrate the second blogiversary of one of my favourite blogs, Vintage Reflection, I wrote a guest post all about my own vintage collection.

Please do click over and have a look, and enjoy Amy's wonderful blog too!

Take 10 for Company Magazine!

2011-11-15T10:00:00.000Z

Sherin - Sarah - Sabine - Ellie - Me - Jen - Vicki - Paula - MJ - Suzie

Dress courtesy ASOS, Stole - Zara, Necklace - YSL, Shoes - Bata

In possibly our scariest challenge yet, Take10 were asked to take on the Little Black Dress for Company Magazine! Company's December issue (which is out now!) is all about the Little Black Dress, and they sent us all this black dress from ASOS, and asked us to style it in our usual way, to be featured in their magazine this month.

The dress itself I liked - it's simple, but it fitted nicely, and the neckline is unusual and adds a nice bit of interest. I stole this stole(!) off my mother to add some colour, but it's the sort of dress you could style with a lot of different accessories, and make it look really different every time you wear it.

Thank you so much for Company for featuring us this month. Being in Take10 has brought me so many amazing opportunities, and I absolutely love taking part with the other girls each month. Make sure you click on the links above to visit their blogs and see how they styled the dress!

Take me to the Circus

2011-11-14T10:00:00.000Z

tights - M&S, shoes courtesy Clarks

I've fallen in love with these Circus Master shoes, which Clarks sent me from their Boutique collection. I've worn Clarks shoes ever since I can remember - memories of those amazing princess shoes with the key spring to mind (I was never allowed them, so sad!) but they have really surpassed themselves with the Boutique range.

I'm so bad for buying really high shoes that I can't walk in just because they're pretty, and then just gazing at them in my wardrobe, hardly worn. I have to admit I haven't worn these out of the house yet... but they're more comfortable than I had expected them to be, so I am determined to get use out of them!

What do you own which you love but never wear? Or are you good at buying practically?

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-11-13T10:13:00.000Z

1. Some gorgeous dorm rooms 2. Shini of Park and Cube got married! 3. I'm not vegan but these recipes look delicious - and so perfectly illustrated 4. How much do I want to be at this party? 5. If like me you ned a bit of inspiration when it comes to thrifting Foxtail and Fern is a pretty good starting point 6. This medieval royalty inspired fashion shoot is just amazing.

And if you're looknig for one more thing to read today Voucher Codes have published an article about the Day in a Dress challenge which I took part in last week. I've been so interested to see what the other girls wore and how they found spending a day in a party dress after my experiences!

Wardrobe Remix

2011-11-10T10:00:00.000Z

clockwise from top: fennelgrl, Pansy Lane, geldenkirchen, Daily Fashion Boost, The Clothes Horse, felicitile

I recently rediscovered the flickr community wardrobe remix, and I now remember how awesome it is - how did I forget?! It's a flickr group for daily outfit photos, and is populated by bloggers and non-bloggers alike. I joined it ages ago but didn't really fully explore until now. I like it much better than your traditional chictopia and lookbook.nu - there's no voting, and the members seem like they got dressed for a normal day - not just to take photos of themselves!

I realise that's a bit rich coming from a fashion blogger, but one of the reasons I love blogging is because I want to see fashion inspiration from real women, going to work and school and just about their day, not impossible magazine images.

If you are a flickr user, or even if you aren't you should definitely click over and have a look, you won't be disappointed!

Dorothy Parker

2011-11-07T10:00:00.000Z

I didn't do much shopping while I was in York but I did happen into an Oxfam bookshop and came away with this beautifully bound and illustrated collection of the works of Dorothy Parker.

I've loved her poems for ages - she is so witty and had such a dark sense of humour, which unfortunately came from quite a troubled life.This is the first time I've read some of her short stories though, so I'm savouring each and every one - reading the book slowly for maximum enjoyment!

Do you race through books you love, or try and make them last as long as possible?

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-11-06T08:56:00.000Z

1. A bit of wintry inspiration 2. The perfect creative corner 3. I am in love with Erin O'Connor's house 4. Posts like Winnie's about exciting food from far of plces (particularly sweets!) always fascinate me! 5. A peek into Orla Kiely's New York store - so jealous, it's massive! 6. Marlene Dietrich is one of my absolute favourite fashion icons

Happy Aussieversary!

2011-11-04T10:00:00.000Z

And you get a pretty excellent party! I feel so privileged to be an Aussie Angel - Aussie really do know how to throw a good shindig. The ingredients listed above are pretty simple but key to throwing a fantastic blogger event, after all we really just want to eat, drink, get our hair done and talk about blogging for a few hours!

I feel quite bad because for the first time in ages I went to a blogger event, lugged my big camera all the way there and just had too much fun (and ok, a little too much wine!) to remember to take any photos! Ooops... So these are all courtesy the 1000heads flickr page where you can see lots more photos of the evening.

Tomato and Apple Chutney

2011-11-02T10:00:00.000Z

Very occaisionally I decide to get my bake on and remind myself why I'm so lazy when it comes to cooking. It's an awful lot of hard work!

The apple tree in my parents' garden produced an overabundance of fruit this year, and in an attempt to get through some of it before all the apples go bad I made some Tomato and Apple Chutney. It turned out really well - though the recipe totally underestimates how much it makes - I filled 11 and a half jam jars! Now I'm after some yummy bread, smelly cheese and I'm sorted for sandwiches all winter I reckon!

A Day in a Dress

2011-10-31T10:00:00.000Z

Dress - coutesy Vouchercodes, Shoes - Vivienne Westwood for Melissa, Tights - H&M

I probably don't need to describe to you the excitement that comes from getting dressed up and putting on a posh frock. Give me any excuse and I am there! So when Most Wanted from Vouchercodes offered to send me a party dress, on the condition that I wear it for a normal day, all day, and report back I thought it would be a pretty easy challenge...

I may have underestimated slightly! Let me tell you what a delicate beaded black party dress is not compatible with...

It's not a good dress to put your foundation on while wearing. It's not a good dress to paint your nails in. It's not a good dress to eat a ham and tomato sandwich in. And it's definitely not a good dress to have to run when you're late in!

It is a perfectly gorgeous party dress though, and I love it very much, I guess I just never realised how putting on a special dress alters the way I act.

When I'm dressed up I'm on best behaviour. I'm careful and I'm much more conscious of myself. In contrast in my everyday life I'm messy, I spill things, I sit on the floor and I leave cardigans crumpled on my chair, and the miracle of the washing machine means I just don't worry that much about it.

I definitely don't take as much care of my clothes as I should, and even just writing that down has made me go hang up three skirts and a blouse slung over a chair in my bedroom - I'm trying to get better!

So thank you Vouchercodes for the challenge - the dress was perfect, I think I need some work though!

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-10-30T10:00:00.000Z

1. Pretty/Creepy old Books 2. The coolest halloween playlist from Krissy 3. Designer Pumpkins 4. And some costume inspiration at Vintage Reflection 5. More creepy inspiration at the Cherry Blossom Girl 6. And some delicious looking Halloween candy!

An unashamedly Halloween themed Lazy Sunday Links this week? Of course! I don't get very into Halloween to be honest, I haven't dressed up in years, but I still love the idea of celebrating all things creepy! I always mean to get organised enough to do something but never quite manage it!

If you are dressing up I'd love to know what you are wearing?

Oasis Argyll Street

2011-10-28T10:00:00.000+01:00

Oasis recently revamped their wonderful shop on Argyll Street in London, and invited myself and a few other bloggers over for a look around. I am completely in love with their knitwear, and am definitely ready to wrap myself in woollens and bed down in their store for the winter! Or not, depending on how Oasis feel about that...

They do happen to have a real life knitter on-site knitting away in their window though - how awesome is that? Maybe I could join her and tell everyone I was performance art - I bet no one would notice...

PS - The marvelous Sarah from EssBeeVee is running a raffle on her blog right now to raise money for Breast Cancer. It is only running today so make sure you head over there and buy a ticket pronto!

York

2011-10-26T10:00:00.000+01:00

The weekend before last I went to York for a few days. My boyfriend and I were looking for a getaway for a few days which felt away but actually wasn't too far (or too expensive!) and York was perfect.

I got some recommendations from some of my favourite northern bloggers Jen and Paula before we went, so I had a pretty good idea of where I wanted to go, but we basically ate, drank and went to museums for three days - glorious!

I really love exploring the UK, and visiting towns and cities all over the country. I'd love to know what's nice to do near where you live - research for my next holiday which I'm obviously planning already!

Lady of the Manor

2011-10-24T10:00:00.000+01:00

Dress - Warehouse, Beaded Shrug - Warehouse, Shoes - Bata, Pearls - Vintage, Bangle - Marc by Marc Jacobs

Before I ended up dressed up in Farlows finest country fare I was wearing this outfit.at their event the other week.

The dress was one of those items I loved on the website, ordered online and then coninced myself I loved in real life when it arrived so I didn't have to go through the effort of sending it back. I am terrible at taking stuff back - I really need to be more disciplined! It has sat at the back of my wardrobe for a while but I decided enough was enough and I had to wear it. There are many things I love about it - the colour, the pretty bow belt, the flare of the skirt, but none of them take away from the fact that it doesn't really fit my top half well at all.

In my heart of hearts I know if I'd tried it on in the shop I wouldn't have bought it, but now I own it so it's got to earn its keep! Are you good at taking clothes back if they're not you, or do you convince yourself you'll wear them like I do?!

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-10-23T10:00:00.000+01:00

1. Kristabel's beautiful photography has got me feeling a little bit festive! 2. I'd like to live here please 3. I've already documented my love for vintage cocktail bits, but a bar cart would be the perfect addition to my collection. 4. MJ's post about the importance of dressing up is one of the best blog posts I've read in a while 5. My New Roots is my new healthy eating inspiration 6. Just the most gorgeous photography and clothing, pretty much ever...

And as an extra link for you the simply lovely Lauren featured me on her blog Glossary the other day. I and some of my favourite bloggers shared our Feel Better Tips. If you aren't reading her blog already you should be!

Take 10 - Next Coat

2011-10-20T10:00:00.000+01:00

Sherin - Sarah - Sabine - Ellie - Me - Jen - Vicki - Paula - MJ - Suzie

Coat courtesy Next, Hat - very old, Faux fur stolen from my mum, Shoes - Bata

Given how flipping cold it is in London at the moment when this coat from Next arrived it was perfect timing! It's a little stiff, and I would prefer a belt rather than just a fitted waist but overall I like it. I've never owned a proper red coat before and I feel very Little Red Riding Hood.

I've worn it quite a lot over the past few days and it's very warm - the thick material has done a wonderful job of keeping the cold out, so much so that I was sweating on the tube today in all my layers!

Make sure you click on the links above to see how the other Take10 girls have styled it.

The Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing

2011-10-19T10:00:00.000+01:00

I have read The Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing, and while it is an excellent book it did not actually prepare me in any way for the real genuine country lifestyle. And Farlows, where I visited last week, is a real genuine country store.

I did enjoy looking round the store - I definitely understand the appeal of barbour, tweed and jumpers with animals on them, even if I've never been within a country mile of, well the real countryside (ok that's a lie, I went on holiday to Wales once), or even a conveniently muddy festival.

Farlows gave me the chance to dress up and play Lady of the Manor for the evening which was great fun, and if you'd like to see the results of all the bloggers who visited check out the Farlows facebook page. For now though you tell me - are you a country Lady? And do you think I could pass?!

all clothes - Farlows, pearls - Vintage

Cami

2011-10-17T10:00:00.000+01:00

Camisole courtesy Jan Ahlgren, Cardigan - Uniqlo, Shorts - Topshop, Watch courtesy H Samuel

When I went to see Jan Ahlgren's Spring Summer 12 collection last week I certainly wasn't expecting to be able to take anything home with me, so I was very excited to see this gorgoeus silk camisole in my goodie bag.

It's such a beautiful texture and shape, I don't think these photos do it justice, although it is probably not designed for girls who need to wear a bra!

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-10-16T10:00:00.000+01:00

1. Love this design work for Free People 2. Butternut Squash looking yum! 3. One of those perfect 'I don't understand a word you have written because I don't speak your language, but that almost makes it even better' blogs 4. Miranda July's video is made for the procrastinators of the world (yes, that definitely includes me!) 5. Err, it's a bow made of hair! I want one! 6. I have been loving Lauren's series on bloggers' homes. Makes me want to tidy up my bedroom!

Jan Ahlgren

2011-10-14T10:00:00.000+01:00

When Four Marketing's email arrived in my inbox inviting me to preview Jan Ahlgren's Spring Summer 12 collection they promised pretty clothes, cupcakes, oh and they just happened to drop in the fact that the designer was an extremely attractive former male model... Of course I said yes!

The collection is not my usual style, but oh it is gorgeous. It's not a very feminine collection, but each piece is so striking, particularly the bold red dresses. They're the sort of dresses that look stunning on, and don't require anything else, you just get dressed and go.

My favourite thing about the collection though, is that the clothes feel timeless. I could see myself buying one of Jan's dresses as an investment in my 20s, and still wearing it in my 50s, and for me that is the mark of an amazing designer.

Grace Green

2011-10-12T10:00:00.000+01:00

I'm slowly working my way through the Models Own nail varnishes I purchased when they had their 50% off sale. Today is Grace Green. Since my rainbow phase about 10 year ago I didn't think I'd ever really want green nails again but how wrong I was! The colour is the most perfect shade.

The First Rule of Bookclub

2011-10-10T11:01:00.000+01:00

Bag - ASOS, Dress - Miss Selfridge

My lovely friend Reda bought me this gorgeous book shaped clutch for my birthday (shhh, noone tell her my birthday was in March!) Isn't it beautiful? I'm kind of in love with weird shaped clutches, I think I might have to start a collection!

In unrelated news one of my favourite Bloggers Selina got in contact with me to let me know that Motel Rocks are giving 20% off until 16th October if you use the code STUDENT20. Pretty sure you don't have to be a student to use it either, so how good is that for the rest of us?!

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-10-09T10:00:00.000+01:00

1. A cup of Jo is not helping my New York obsession 2. The most perfect pop up shop 3. Isn't this such a pretty gift? 4. A wistful last summer day 5. Kris Atomic's photography makes me think I should just throw away my camera and get real! Her pictures are so perfect. 6. Elsa's Monki TV debut - she is so cute!

A little bit of what you like

2011-10-07T10:00:00.000+01:00

This week has just flown by, and unfortunately gone also has any opportunity to take photos. These dark nights are really hampering my ability to blog! Next week I have the whole week off however so you probably won't be able to get rid of me! In the meantime here's what I've been buying, eating and seeing over the past few weeks.

(I'm still totally obsessed with instagram, if you're on it and we aren't friends yet I'm whereisharriet, feel free to add me!)

Layout Love

2011-10-05T10:00:00.000+01:00

I've been thinking a lot about blog layouts recently. Usually when I'm thinking about how to make my own blog better I start by looking at some of my favourite blogs (aesthetically speaking, although the content is good too!) and come up with a list of the things I love about them. Then I think about what I could do to incorporate those things into my blog.

The things I love about these blogs are the way everything just goes together, they seem so well laid out and planned, each blog post just seems to fit. Whether it's a super slick uncluttered blog like Design Love Fest, or a higgledy piggeldy colourful blog like A Beautiful Mess these are the blogs that inspire me. They mostly aren't blogs I follow everyday, but ones I dip in and out of every so often. Especially with blogs that are about cookery or design, they're not something I read about all the time (unlike clothes!) but definitely the blogs I keep bookmarked for a rainy day.

I'd love to know what blogs you admire, not just content wise but aesthetically as well? Who do you look for inspiration from? I have a ton of blogs I love to read and look at but I can never have too many!

Orange Obsession

2011-10-03T10:00:00.000+01:00

Dress - Asos, Tights - Primark, Shoes - Bata, Watch courtesy H Samuel

I wore this dress to Susie's Leaving Do last weekend, and it's pretty much my favourite dress ever. It's ridiculously flattering and I love the mix of the conservative neckline and midi length with the bright colour.

I chatted to Lizzy and Lily for a while about the difficulty of working in quite conservative fields but still wanting to dress like ourselves. I've ummed and ahhed about whether this dress is work appropriate for a while, as in any other colour I think it would be but bright orange?

In the end I went for it and wore it to work later last week, and although I got a few surprised looks and comments they were mostly positive! It's definitely encouraged me to wear bright colours to work more often and cheer up my day!

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-10-02T10:00:00.000+01:00

1. People this young should not be this good looking 2. Elsie's tips on staying inspired 3. This video from Dior is so clever - how many famous faces do you spot? 4. Love this branding/packaging 5. Lucy takes us on a tour of The Origin Craft Fair 6. I could totally be a beatnik

Readathon

2011-09-30T10:00:00.000+01:00

Gosh books are expensive aren't they? Even on 3 for 2 at Waterstones! I don't tend to buy a lot of books for myself really - I usually just borrow them off my parents, the library, or ask for the ones I want for Christmas. But I made the mistake of entering a bookshop, and that was it.

Before I knew what I was doing I was walking away from the till with a plastic bag and a confused expression!

So what are you reading right now? (apart from this blog obviously!)

#susiesleavingdo

2011-09-28T10:00:00.000+01:00

In Pictures: Fritha, Lucy, Kristabel, Lil, Daniela, Lizzy, Lily, Jazmine, Reena hope I haven't forgotten anyone! Other than the lady herself and the wonderful organisers mentioned below of course!

Over the past couple of years or so I've met some amazing bloggers from all over the country, but in particular it's been great to get to know a wonderful group of London based bloggers, and now I'm never scared of turning up to an event alone as there's always a familiar face and someone to have a chat to.

Susie's been a massive part of the London Fashion Blogger community, but alas her very exciting and scary sounding phd is taking her back up north to Scotland, and so naturally a group of us had to get together with cake, tea and some very sparkly dresses to bid her bon voyage.

Sherin and Rachel did an amazing job of organising the event, complete with goodie bags and the most delicious scones I have ever tasted! I had a really lovely time, and it was just a shame that Susie has to leave at the end of it.

Makeup Junky

2011-09-26T10:00:00.000+01:00

A few years ago the most makeup I wore was mascara - relatively easy to put on without making a mess of it being the main criteria for my makeup bag!

These days while I'm no beauty blogger I do wear a lot more than I used to and I'm definitely more willing to experiment. Blusher is my latest obsession - particularly the cream blushes from Topshop which everyone was raving about six months ago... I'm a tad slow on the uptake! The colour is Head over Heels and I really like it. I don't wear it everyday, but it's nice over foundation, and I do feel rather glam when I'm wearing it!

Lazy Sunday Links - London Fashion Week Edition

2011-09-25T13:58:00.000+01:00

1. Kristabel's gorgeous melee of photos 2. And Kris Atomic's stunning shots 3. Topshop Unique by The Style Crusader 4. Mulberry by Carrie 5. Giles Patronus by Shini 6. The Look Show by Jen

A handful of some of my favourite photographs of London Fashion Week. Click the pictures to go to the blogs featured!

Take 10 - Butler and WIlson for QVC

2011-09-23T10:00:00.000+01:00

Sherin - Sarah - Sabine - Ellie - Me - Jen - Vicki - Paula - MJ - Suzie

Ring - Butler and Wilson courtesy QVC, Dress - Zara

I have to admit not the most exciting outfit from me for this take 10. I kind of wanted the ring to speak for itself, but also, I took these photos at 6.30am before work and I wasn't feeling all that creative! The Butler and Wilson ring sure is sparkly though!

Butler and Wilson is one of those heritage British brands that seems to be making a comeback at the moment, and I am so glad! My mum loved them when she was my age, and it is so great to see the beautiful jewellery they are producing now. Thanks to QVC for sending us these gorgeous pieces of glitter, and don' forget to check out the other girls too!

Moody Wednesday

2011-09-21T10:00:00.000+01:00

This scarf has firmly become my best friend. It was very kindly sent to me by Moody's - the best scarf site pretty much ever, and it's perfect for hungover Sundays afternoons, fresh crisp Monday mornings and the odd moody Wednesday as well.

It's only half way through the week and I'm ready for the weekend already, sigh! My recipe for a moody Wednesday involves a warm bath, a cup of something hot and lovely, and browsing the latest shows on style.com.

What do you do to beat the midweek blues?

The Lazy Girl's Guide to Fashion Week

2011-09-19T10:00:00.000+01:00

Ok, so don't tell anyone, but I kind of skipped the whole Fashion Week she-bang this weekend, and went to the country instead... Well Oxford, which is smaller than London and thus counts as the country... My boyfriend's parents have chickens and everything! Thanks to Dominos for the pizza (their new gourmet pizza menu is delish!) and Doctor Who on the telly my weekend was sorted!

I'll definitely be back on form soon (and taking typically blurry Fashion Week photos behind a sea of heads!), but for now I think I'll stick to enjoying other people's photos from the comfort of my laptop. Please point me in the direction of your coverage if you were there this weekend, or your favourite deisgners/photos I should check out.

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-09-18T10:00:00.000+01:00

1. The most stunning editorial 2. Weekendspiration from The Beauty Department 3. This video rocks my socks. Seriously, if you click any link this week let it be this one! 4. I loved reading about Susie Bubble's Topshop Window! 5. Possibly the most stunning Lookbook ever 6. Thandie Newton and Louis Vuitton? Yes please!

Day 7 - Marks and Spencer Challenge

2011-09-14T08:00:00.000+01:00

Leather Jacket - Topshop, Scarf - New Look, Jumper courtesy Marks and Spencer Limited Collection, Skirt - French Connection, Boots - Schuh, Watch courtesy H Samuel

This is it - my final outfit for M&S. I've had so much fun this week, and I hope you've enjoyed seeing my outfits - I will shut up about them now I promise!

As you can see I'm in full winter mode at the moment - a snuggly jumper just brings out the snow bunny in me! I'm pretty sure I'm not going to win the competition, but given I have an entire new winter wardrobe courtesy of M&S I'm still one very happy blogger! On the off chance you want to vote the M&S facebook page is the place to do it though.

Thanks so much to Marks and Spencer for being so wonderful and giving me this opportunity. I can 100% recommend them for their gorgeous, excellent quality clothes and their brilliant customer service. Thanks as well to everyone who has voted and commented over the past seven days. Forgive me for going all gushing for a moment but it still constantly amazes and delights me that anyone at all reads my blog and I really do appreciate every single kind word of encouragement!

Day 6 - Marks and Spencer Challenge

2011-09-13T08:00:00.000+01:00

Dress courtesy Marks and Spencer Limited Collection, Gloves - Primark, Shoes - Bata, Bag - Chanel

One of the reason I enjoy taking part in challenges like this one is the chance to get out of my comfort zone and try on something I'd never normally pick up. This dress definitely fits that category!

Vogue reliably informs me that the fetish look is in this autumn, so I thought I'd try something along that train of thought... You may or may not be able to tell from these photos that I've never tried to look 'fetish' in my life before today, and I probably won't ever again!

The dress being so stand out, I didn't think there was much in the way of accessories I could add without looking way too over the top, so I stuck with black gloves, shoes and bag.

You can vote for your favourite look of the day on the M&S facebook page, and leave a comment on the facebook page too to be in with a chance of winning some M&S vouchers for yourself!

Day 5 - Marks and Spencer Challenge

2011-09-12T08:00:00.000+01:00

Dress courtesy of Marks and Spencer Limited Collection, Hat - Urban Outfitters, Jacket - Hobbs, Shoes - Bertie

This is one of my favourite items I was sent by Marks and Spencer. The dress is so sweet, and orange and blue are one of my favourite colour combinations! I dressed it up with my favourite Hobbs jacket for work today, but it's such a versatile dress I can see myself relaxing in it at the weekends too.

Don't forget to vote for your favourite outfit of the day over on facebook if you want!

Day 4 - Marks and Spencer Challenge

2011-09-11T08:00:00.000+01:00

Coat courtesy Marks and Spencer Limited Collection, Shirt - very old Marks and Spencer, Skirt - All Saints, Shoes - Bata, Belt - H&M, Gloves - Primark

It's Sunday, boo! I've just had four days off work so here is my back to work outfit for tomorrow. The coat is such a stunner that I didn't want to overwhelm it too much, so I went with a simple white shirt and pencil skirt, and elbow length (faux) leather gloves of course. Thank goodness it's Autumn again!

As I'm not doing my usual Lazy Sunday Links post today due to the M&S challenge I thought I'd take the opportunity to link you to my companions (or rivals!) in the competition:

Katie - Cait - Catwalk Queen - Reena - Becky

I have to say when I first saw who I was up against, my heart sunk a little - 'there goes any hope of me going to Paris!' I thought! Still I am quite happy to be classed in such excellent company so I can't really complain! You can vote for which of us is wearing your favourite look at the M&S Facebook Page as always, and I won't be offended if it isn't me!

Day 3 - Marks and Spencer Challenge

2011-09-10T08:00:00.000+01:00

Bolero courtesy Marks and Spencer Limited Collection, Bustier - Vintage, Skirt - Zara, Shoes courtesy Bertie

Yup, I'm wearing my bra. Not something I ever imagined writing here, but I'm afraid this vintage bustier is just too pretty to keep to myself, so those of a delicate disposition should close your browser now!

When I pulled this gorgeous beaded bolero out of its box from M&S my first thought was of an incredibly elegant dressing gown! So I went with that theme, but tried to tone down the underwear with a high waisted black skirt.

As always you can 'like' me on the Marks and Spencer Facebook Page if you want, which could win me a trip to Paris and M&S vouchers to give away here!

Day 2 - Marks and Spencer Challenge

2011-09-09T08:00:00.000+01:00

Top courtesy Marks and Spencer Limited Collection, Skirt courtesy Marks and Spencer Limited Collection, Hat - Accessorize, Tights - Accessorize, Bangles - Marc by Marc Jacobs and Vintage, Shoes - Bata

Today's outfit for the Marks and Spencer Challenge is an attempt at pattern clashing without looking like a clown. Did it work!? I don't know. I tried to stick to all the pattern clashing for beginners rules - keep the colour palette minimal etc etc but I still feel that the art of the perfect pattern clash eludes me! Any advice?

I really love this top and skirt though - the top especially I can tell is the sort of thing I would wear all the time. It's basic but interesting and will go with pretty much anything in my wardrobe.

As I mentioned yesterday, you can vote for me to go to Paris by liking my outfits on the M&S Facebook page if you want, but there's absolutely no pressure to do so, other than, y'know, I like Paris! (Just kidding, there really is no pressure!) If you leave a comment on the facebook page you could win an M&S voucher too!

Day 1 - Marks and Spencer Challenge

2011-09-08T08:00:00.000+01:00

Trousers courtesy M&S, Shirt - M&S (really old), Scarf - Vintage, Watch courtesy H Samuel, Socks - Dorothy Perkins, Shoes - really old from America

I feel incredibly excited and lucky today, as I've been invited to help celebrate the release of the Autumn/Winter Limited collection at Marks and Spencer.

Everyday for the next week I'll be styling some of the items from the collection - yup that's a blog post every day for the next seven days, eek!

If you'd like to, I should point out you can like my outfits on the Marks and Spencer Facebook Page and I could win a trip to Paris, but of course if you'd rather just sit back and enjoy my outfits on here that's perfectly fine too! (and if you don't want to do either of those things, well why on earth are you reading a fashion blog?!)

Today's outfit was a little bit 50s inspired - the trousers M&S sent me are a gorgeous colour, and such a nice shape too. I had to roll them up a little as I'm such a shortie, but they are the first pair of trousers I've put on and genuinely loved in a long time, so I'm very excited about that as it's a whole new sartorial direction for me!

Making Plans

2011-09-06T10:00:00.000+01:00

Ten things I will do when my exams are over:

.Stay in bed all day reading magazines and painting my nails.

.Watch about a million episodes of the West Wing.

.Go shoe shopping.

.Actually figure out how my Diana Camera works and take some photos!

.Leave approximately one billion blog comments to make up for my absence these past few weeks.

.Go through Sandra and Elsa's lists of their favourite blogs and find new ones to follow.

.Start reading again. I really want to read Gone with the Wind as it's one of those books I feel I should have read but never actually did.

.Create the most awesome playlist and dance around my bedroom.

.Clean my bedroom floor (best done pre-dancing...)

.Start working on a very exciting blog project for later this week.

How do you treat yourself when you've had a hard day/week/month?!

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-09-04T02:00:00.000+01:00

1. Best looking hotel ever? 2. I think my to do lists would be much more likely to get done if they looked like this 3. The McQueen exhibition is coming to London! Very exciting stuff! 4. Love the beautiful new video from Florence and the Machine 5. If you like food and haven't seen What Katie Ate then you are missing out on life! 6. I wish it was the 90s again so I could dress exactly like Cher!

Style Icons

2011-09-02T10:00:00.005+01:00

Photo Credits: Nicola Roberts pohtographed for Notion Magazine, Ashley Olsen via Olsens Anonymous, Blair Waldorf Gossip Girl Screencaps via Fcuk Yeah Blair Waldorf, Zooey Deschanel photographed by Ellen Von Unworth for Lula, Sandra from Niotillfem

I haven't done a style inspiration post in a long time, but then my fashion icons don't change that regularly. I'm a pretty loyal fan!

I still have my pale girlcrush on Nicola Roberts, my so-stylish-it-physically-hurts-me icon Ashley Olsen, my favourite fictional character ever Blair Waldorf, my I'd-just-like-to-be-you-for-a-day-and-I'd-die-happy adoration of Zooey Deschanel and my blogger-I-most-idolize Sandra.

Who do you admire most, fashion or otherwise?

Things that make me Happy

2011-08-31T10:00:00.003+01:00

1. the smell of fresh lavender picked from my parents' garden

2. my new vintage H (well the shop owner said it was from a vintage shop sign,

for all I know it's from Urban Outfitters!)

3. pink, somewhat chipped, nail varnish and pink ribbons

4. The entire series of the west wing on dvd

The post title pretty much says it all, but the pretty sparkly bits on my photos were made by Carrie from wishwishwish and you can get them here.

Revision

2011-08-29T10:00:00.008+01:00

tee - h&m, skirt - topshop

In the interest of full disclosure this is what I look like when I'm revising. Hair scraped back, glasses, my slouchiest clothes, no make up (shocking!)... Now you know how unglamorous my life really is! All my hard work undone! How do you dress for a slobby day? Are you a pyjama person, or would you never be caught dead without makeup?

And since I'm feeling confessional the reason I am taking these photos sat on my bed? I am a total slob when I am revising too - my bedroom floor looks like this:

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-08-28T10:00:00.002+01:00

1. Is this not the sweetest present? 2. And the coolest video ever? 3. My newest favourite blog 4. In my heart it is sunny and I am lounging in a meadow wearing a flower crown 5. What to do when you don't know what to do 6. I can never get enough of these cute moving pictures!

PS if you are on Foursquare and fancy winning a holiday to Berlin you should definitely check out the top secret project being run over at thegalinka-project.com/ It looks really fun, plus, you know, Berlin!

The Winner is...

2011-08-26T10:00:00.002+01:00

Nelly from Life, Dreams and Cupcakes!

Congratulations to Nelly for winning the dress from Love!

I've also contacted all the winners from my mini Aussie giveaway too, so you all know who you are, but for the record it was Paula, Raquel, Kat, Sarah, Leia, Kate and Harriet (not me, promise!)

Take 10 - Lomography Challenge

2011-08-25T08:00:00.001+01:00

Sherin - Sarah - Sabine - Ellie - Me - Jen - Vicki - Paula - MJ - Suzie

Dress - Topshop, Blouse - M&S, Shoes - Accessorize, Diana F+ courtesy Lomography

I think you'll agree most bloggers love their cameras, and the iconic Diana is one of the most beautiful. Lomogaphy kindly sent us each a Diana to try out, but I admit thus far mine has been more fashion accessory than actively used camera!

I've bought the film, but it's been years since I've used anything other than a digital camera and I'm a bit... scared.... That's pretty silly I know!

I'm determined to get over the fear and start snapping some photos soon. With a digital SLR and five million iphone apps at my finger tips to create beautiful photos it's easy to understand why film has fallen by the wayside, but I'm so glad there are still so many film users and lomographers in particular keeping it alive. Wait up guys, I'm coming too!

Guess Who?

2011-08-22T10:00:00.005+01:00

Watch by Guess, courtesy H. Samuel, Cardigan - Topshop, Shirt - M&S

As my blog has grown and I've had more opportunities to work with different brands, I occaisionally feel like a bit of a walking advertisement. An advertisement for all my favourite things though, so I hope that makes it a bit better?!

H Samuel were kind enough to send me this watch to celebrate the fact that they now stock the full range of Guess Watches and I love it. It's quite modern, and dare I use the phrase funky (I am aware funky isn't a terribly hip word these days, much like the word hip, but if I'm using it ironically..?) Funky isn't usually very me but it's so pretty and I love the fact that it tells me the date and the day of the week too! I can never remember that stuff!

I went for a monochrome outfit to show it off, but to be honest I've been wearing it every day since it appeared in the post. When I was younger I didn't wear a watch very much, so wearing one now always makes me feel like a proper grown up! I'm so busy and important I need to know the time always. Ahem...

Lazy Sunday Links (and more!)

2011-08-21T08:00:00.001+01:00

1. I've become kind of obsessed with Olsens Anonymous. Isn't this the perfect midi skirt? 2. Dear Urban Outfitters, can I move into your head office plz? Thanks, see you Monday! 3. I thought I spent a long time in front of my camera tripod taking photos, but I have nothing on this girl's amazing shots! 4. Five tips for better self portraits 5. A beautiful Free People photoshoot 6. A peek at Krissy's beautiful apartment

I know I already have a competition running at the moment to win a lovely dress (you can enter it here!), but here's another mini opportunity to win a prize! Aussie have given me seven goodiebags, filled with hair products and other fun stuff to give away to readers. To win simply comment on this post and tell me something you have to celebrate today. It can be as big as getting your A-level results or as small as having your favourite dinner for tea!

I'll pick the seven winners randomly tomorrow so please leave your email address so I can contact you. You must be over 18 and resident in the UK.

Win a Dress with Love!

2011-08-19T10:00:00.003+01:00

dress courtesy of love, shoes - schuh, bowler hat - urban outfitters, tights - h&m

I was sent this beautiful dress from Love recently, and I've already decided it's the perfect summer-autumn transitional item. I know it's going to look perfect with big knitted jumpers and over the knee socks this winter, and should August decide to come back properly at all it will look lovely with sandals and bare legs too!

Even better Love have offered to give a dress from their collection to one Where is Harriet reader. To enter simply leave a comment on this post. Don't forget to include your email address so I can get in contact with the winner!

For a second entry you can tweet about the competition:

Have you entered @whereisharriet 's competition to win a dress from @LoveourLove yet? http://www.whereisharriet.net

The competition will be open for one week and I will announce the winner on Friday 26th August. Good Luck!

How to Feel Pretty

2011-08-17T10:00:00.002+01:00

I was feeling particularly pretty the other day so I snapped a few quick photos in the bathroom mirror. I never originally intended to share them on here - they were simply a self esteem booster for me.

I think in general I have a pretty healthy body image. I know I an a few pounds heavier than I was when I started this blog, but I also know I'd rather eat ice-cream than be a size smaller so it balances out.

Photographing myself so often for this blog has really forced me to confront any issues I do have with my body. I think I'm not alone in the fact that I take loads of outfit photos, and only a handful of carefully scrutinised and edited pictures make it on here. Having taken so many I feel like I know every inch of myself, and I know which bits I like, and how to hide the bits I don't. Overall though I'm pretty happy with the person in the mirror.

However like everyone I have days when my hair won't behave, and my outfit just isn't quite right, and I feel unhappy with the way I look. And so, because I did feel pretty, I took some photos. Blogging has made capturing pretty things with my camera a natural part of my life, and sometimes that's food or a new dress, sometimes a shop window display or me.

I read the lovely Leia's post last week on blogging and body self-consciousness and I was fascinated by her thoughts, and the comments too. I think most people concluded that whether blogging had made them more self-conscious or not, it had made them look at themselves differently.

I think like anything blogging is what you make of it. I try to use my blog to capture all the good things in my life, so that I'll always remember them. And so when I feel good, I take a photo.

Retail Therapy

2011-08-15T10:00:00.002+01:00

Just to let you know I am currently revising for some horrible exams so my internet presence is going to be somewhat restricted over the next few weeks. My life currently consists of getting up early, revising all day, trying to eat well and get lots of sleep, and spending my spare time ordering myself presents on the internet to feel better about it all!

I have scheduled as many posts as physically possible over the next few weeks, but my commenting will probably be a lot less than usual until the begininng of September. See you on the other side!

Lazy Sunday Links

2011-08-14T10:00:00.006+01:00

1. From Russia with Love 2. When my colleague told me you could make a beetroot cake I thought she was mad but this looks delicious! 3. I will at some point get over my obsession with couture on a farm photoshoots, but in the mean time there is this. 4. Jo's Heidi Braids tutorial is so pretty watch 5. A beautiful funfair photoshoot 6. Ellie shared these gorgeous photos of a lovely looking vintage emporium

Sweet and Spicy Salmon

2011-08-12T08:00:00.005+01:00

I got an email last week saying I needed to come up with a recipe for the work charity cookbook by today, so after a little panic at the weekend I tried this one out and it worked perfectly! I was given an ingredient and a type of meal - mine was a quick main dish involving fish. Luckily that was something I can do - if they'd asked me for a gourmet mushroom starter or something I would have been completely stuck!

I mixed a tablespoon of honey and a tablespoon of soy sauce together in a bowl to make a paste. Then I added some chopped spring onions (fresh from my parents' garden!) a pinch or two of powdered ginger to taste and some black pepper.

I spooned the mixture on to some fillets of fresh salmon and covered them with tinfoil. Then I baked them in the oven for 20 minutes and served with new potatoes and green salad.

The whole thing takes about half an hour from start to finish so I think that has the 'quick' part sorted. If I had remembered I would have marinaded the salmon in the sauce overnight but I have never once in my life got it together to actually marinade something ahead of when I want to eat it! So I usually just abandon that bit...

The Problem Child

2011-08-10T08:00:00.002+01:00

jacket - elle, culottes - ymc, belt - vintage, shirt - m&s

Please excuse my hair - it's having a crazy day.

Ahem. Do you have items in your wardrobe which you love but don't quite seem to go with anything else you own? This is one of my biggest fashion sins - puchasing the perfect item of clothing, and ignoring the fact it goes with nothing in my wardrobe.

This jacket is a prime example. I've had it for ages, and yet it rarely makes it out of the cupboard. It's survived numerous wardrobe culls where I've ruthlessly go rid of all the other 'I never wear it' items, but somehow I still don't seem to wear it.

I'm hoping by getting it out and photographing it I may get some inspiration as to what on earth I can wear it with! I'm starting with one of my most basic go-to outfits and we'll work from there!

Couture Cinco - August

2011-08-08T08:00:00.005+01:00

Leia - Jamie - Dena - Harriet - Martina

It's another month and another Couture Cinco video! This week we discuss what's in our beach bags, or in my case fantasy beach bag. It's definitely left me wanting to go to the beach, or really anywhere. I have plans for maybe a petit holiday in October, but for the moment it is work work work, and my beach bag remains imaginary - for now!

Couture Cinco is an initiative created by Dena and Leia to showcase five international ladies who are all passionate about beauty and fashion.