Wednesday 29 June 2016

Summer travel made easy

With the summer break officially upon us (I say 'officially', the lovely drizzle outside my window suggests otherwise) it's the period when most people decide to travel. Be that jetting off to another land, getting away for one weekend or embarking on a road-trip, it's time to get your shoes on and explore beyond your place of work/home.

Thing is, the actual travelling TO your destination is hardly any fun. Travelling home is even worse. Not only have you got to meticulously plan your journey in advance, make sure you have packed everything you need (and then some), but also decide what to wear on your journey. But, looking good and remaining comfy on your 7 hour flight/car journey need not be difficult.

Here are five tips to make travelling a happier affair.

Image:colourbox


1. Layers, layers, layers

The beauty of layers is, of course, the fact that you can take them off and put them on at your wish. It is like having your own body thermostat which you can regulate. I recommend a thin vest, some form of shirt or blouse and a cardigan/jumper.

2. Ditch the heels 


Image:lenalily
Travelling with stilletos may make you look and feel glamorous but within thirty minutes of desperately looking for terminal 5 at Heathrow, you will be envious of that toddler you spy wearing the nike trainers. Instead, opt for flats - not flimsy dolly shoes but some pumps. If you really must have some height, go for boots with a block heel.

3. Loose fit skirt/trousers 

Long car journeys/flights mean sitting for, yes, you guessed it, long periods of time. Wearing a tight skirt will inevitably lead you to feel uncomfortable and restricted. A maxi skirt, wide leg trousers or harem pants will enable some much needed leg room and will be cooler. Added bonus: all the better for lounging around in when you reach that sunny villa.

4. One bag (zip included)

Okay, if you're like me you will inevitably over pack. BUT when it comes to hand luggage/the bag you have with you throughout your journey, just stick to the one. And make sure it is a) large enough to pack essentials in (a bottle of water, moisturiser, book) and b) has a zip (to prevent the aforesaid items pouring out and leaving you look like you have well and truly lost it).

The ultimate travel bag: York Buckle Tote £265 

5. Take a scarf 

Even if you're going somewhere hot. A scarf has multiple purposes, including acting as a pillow rest and/or sleeping mask and/or comfort blanket when the stress of travelling gets all too much, Hey, we've all been there. Delayed flight anyone?
Image:365travelquotes

Monday 20 June 2016

New jeans on the block

Do you own a pair of skinny jeans? Of course you do - from classic navy, to jet black, to vibrant red, skinny jeans have become a wardrobe staple.They are great and, yep, I love them too.

But recently the more neglected baggier style is making a comeback. And rightly so.
Although skinny jeans are flattering for most women, often creating a slimming effect, they are pretty tight. Fine when it's cooler, but in the summer months that is definitely not what you want!

Contrast this to the low swung boyfriend and/or 'mom' jeans and your legs have some much needed breathing space. No blood vessel constriction included.

Image:ukfashiondesign.com 
The style of jeans is trickier to get right than the classic skinny, though. Wear it with an oversized T-shirt and trainers and you may end up looking like mum on her school run. But wear it with something more sheek and the look will be on point.

Rips and tears? Again, tricky. Some varieties of this style only have holes in the knees making them look a little rogue. If rips are your thing, go for ones which have a few on the upper leg area too, as well as cut outs on the knee. This will balance out the look. 

And if you're feeling brave, you can make your own using a pair of scissors and/or pin and/or tweezers (as below). Make sure to use a dark pencil beforehand to sketch out where the rips will be. That said, perhaps don't try this on your favourite pair of Ralph Laurens....

Image: seamsandscissors

Sorry skinny jeans, it's time to mix it up......

One Teaspoon Awesome Baggies Distressed Jeans in Blue. £105.00.