Spring Refresh

FINALLY.

The sun has come out, the weather is (slowly but surely) warming up and spring blossom can be seen everywhere. It's a good time. It's Spring time. We emerge from our winter hibernation mode. The coats we have been wearing for the last 4-5 months seem exhausted & dishevelled. Our boots are worn out. All all in, it's time for a wardrobe refresh and to put a spring back in your step (sorry...)

With that in mind, here's a quick fire list of some wardrobe essentials for the new season ...

• A trench coat. Light-weight, flattering and a timeless addition to any wardrobe, this is perfect for when it's sunny & bright but not quite warm enough to leave your coat at home. 
• A boxy sling over bag, with cross body strap. Great for long walks in the sun when you want to leave your hands free (or in your partner's).
• A bright cardigan. Layering is crucial for a season which isn't yet warm enough for strappy tops alone. Inject colour into your outfit by choosing bright colours like yellow, pink or blue. 
• High-waisted 'mom' jeans. The looser style make these great for a relaxed spring look. Belt up and wear with flats.
• A floral dress. Choose one that sits just above the knee for an elegant look that will take you from day to night. 
• A denim shirt in chambray, indigo or navy. Whatever shade of blue you choose, this is a great alternative to a cardigan. Wear open or button up, choice is yours. 
• Shades. Obviously. (What better way to hide those late night bags?)
• A pinafore. Pair with tights or go bare-legged if feeling brave. Wear over a stripy top to channel total Breton vibes.
• A small back pack. Weekend picnics anyone? Choose a small, nifty size to avoid being mistaken for the less attractive 'work rucksack'.
• White plimsoll socks with a frill at the top. You know the ones I mean. Currently in love. Wear with brogues or pumps. #playgroundthrowback

Head out in style (and comfort)

Let's face it. Sometimes you just want to be in your sweats, sports bra & softest hoodie. Unfortunately though, it's not always the most flattering look for heading out (unless you're hitting the gym, in which case said attire is totally acceptable). Afternoon tea with your mum, brunch with friends, a trip to the cinema - all these outings call for a stylish outfit. But style and comfort need not be mutually exclusive. There are simple ways you can feel good whilst looking good too.

For starters, you can't go wrong with a chic jumper. It's pretty much a hoodie, minus the hood (no guesses there) and the thick interior lining. A jumper has a loose fit - perfect for easy movement - and will keep you warm depending on the knit. You can also shop them in so many colours, textures and patterns, be it Breton stripes (on trend right now) or polka dots.

Another simple comfort hack is to choose trousers with a stretch waistband. High-waisted culottes are great for this (for more click here), as are 'super stretchy' jeans with added elastic. These types of trousers with an elastic waistband are especially ideal for eating out - hello, buffet - without compensating for style in the way a pair of joggers would.

It's also super easy to mix up an outfit by adding a scarf. I seem to mention scarves a lot, but they truly are a fantastic addition to any look, be it day or night. Plus they tick the comfort box. Choose ribbed, chunky scarves in winter and patterned, silk scarves in summer. Both will instantly add a dash of style and colour. Ball or black tie affair? Wear a scarf as you would a shawl for a sophisticated look that's as close to a comfort blanket one can get.

Annnnnd finally: footwear. Bulky trainers - no. Slick pumps - yes. Retailers are rolling out more and more pumps that can be worn with jeans, dresses or skirts. The variety of styles out there is huge, but plain white/black are my favourite. The secure fit and extra support these pumps have will make running for the bus a doddle. You may even want to walk it home. Uber, what uber?!

Sneak peek: What I carry in my bag

Image: sketchedoutfiles

The other day someone chuckled about my stuffed handbag, to which I replied 'yes I am the new Mary Poppins'. Needless to say, I never pack light - never have really. If I could, I would bring far more with me, but over the years you learn to cut back (for the sake of your shoulder more than anything else).

With that in mind, these are the essentials I still carry with me, whenever I head out:

- A water bottle. Key to staying hydrated, especially when on the move and travelling for long periods of time. Bottled water is hard to find on the go so I always make sure to fill mine up before leaving the house.

- Safety pins. A must! You never know when you might need one - a  missing shirt button, a top that needs taking in - these work wonders even in the most awkward of style moments.

- Lipbalm. My beauty essential since the age of 10. Right now, my favourite is the Nivea Vanilla and  Macadamia flavour, the closest thing to dessert a lipbalm gets.

- Card, travel ticket, keys and all that fun (less) stuff.

- Scarf. If I'm not wearing one, I'm carrying one. A style hack is to tie the scarf around your handbag. Not only does this add a touch of colour and decoration to your bag, it also leaves more room inside (bonus).

- Mirror. Because even the most perfect make-up needs checking.

- Plasters. Not just for accidents but for that horrible rub on your ankle when wearing new shoes. Answer = fresh plasters throughout the day.

- Hand sanitiser. A revolutionary invention. It dries within 10 seconds, no soap and water needed. Especially handy for when you're about to eat out.

- The latest magazine. Typically a London based one (Time Out, ES magazine) or Glamour, my favourite women's glossy. Great for getting fashion inspo whilst zoning out the rush-hour commute.