Special feature: fashion shoot

A few weekends ago I had the pleasure of shooting with Jes Abiola (@theeyeofja) as part of a joint collaboration. The location was slap bang in the city centre of London. On Saturday, the usually busy location was eerily quiet - no suits to be seen, just a few tourists!

We decided on a look that was bold and a touch androgynous - a statement of self-expression and authenticity. A trouser suit, deep maroon blazer and an oversized checked coat. We went to around 5 or so different backdrops and tried out a number of varied poses. I quickly found out that smiles - on this shoot - were not allowed, and would go against the strong, intense look he had in mind (being naturally smiley this was hard!).

After the shoot, I was curious to learn more about Jes's photography, so decided to ask him a few questions. Read on for more - and enjoy the pics!

Okay, first up. How would you describe your photography?

I would describe my style of photography as simple and natural. I see my photography, to an extent, as taking a stand against the over-processed visuals we’ve become used to, especially in the social media age. Because of that I make very minimal (if any) tweaks to my subjects, and play with light and colour to bring out what is already there. 

Essentially, I want to capture their essence in an image. To quote one of my friends, “you’re capturing souls.”

Wow - kinda deep. Let's go into a bit more detail. What was the concept for this particular shoot?

The square mile is full of strong/powerful and striking architecture and visuals; this shoot was all about mirroring that strength through my wonderful subject - you! 

I also took some inspiration from fellow London photographer Koray Hussein - a real favourite of mine - which often has female subjects in powerful positions. The blend of an archetypal London backdrop with a subject in powerful positions proved to be a successful one. 

The location really was great! That brings me to my next question - what’s more important to creating a good shoot, the clothes or the location?

That’s a good question. I don’t know if there is a right answer here, as the two play off each other. The same outfit in different locations can evoke a different emotion, but the same could be said about the same location with different outfits. Impossible to choose a single answer here!

And finally, I'm turning the tables - sum up your style in a word.

Mercurial.

All pictures subject to copyright, for more, visit www.TheEyeofJA.com 

Playing detective - a coat to investigate

You know that feeling when you buy a new coat and it becomes a second skin? Worn pretty much everywhere, with everything? Yep, me too. I'm not quite sure why, but the feeling of having a new coat is kinda special. Probably because coats are, typically, an investment piece. Because of that, they are also something that you will wear most days.

Image: eyeofja

Last season it was all about the pink coat, this season the long, 'detective' style coat.

This style of coat was all over the 18 Winter/Autumn catwalk and for good reason. A touch masculine and boxy - and with a host of patterns available - they are quite the statement. Speaking back to the pretty and feminine pink coats of last year, this style is far more androgynous and, in my opinion, practical.

Firstly, the long length serves two purposes. 1) It protects your lower half from the cold (lament the number of coats that stop at the thighs, leaving your kegs cold! This one goes right down to mid-calf). 2) It allows a sweeping of fabric every time you walk - especially when when striding fast in windy weather. #thepavementisyourrunway

I also much prefer the colour palette of these coats. Typically coming in neutral shades of grey, brown or black, they are super versatile for your wardrobe. I like to pair mine with a bright scarf or a polo neck jumper.

Another winner is to pair the coat with long knee length boots, tights and a skirt, for winter chic that doesn't resort back to your favourite jeans.

All in all, I'm sold by this style of coat. Or maybe because it's now a second skin, I can't not be sold. Go grab yours and play detective.

First date fashion

Oh, first dates. The flutter in the stomach, the constant checking of the persons social media, the fear of forgetting their name, the list continues. But what's worse than the absolute apprehension of what to wear? Take it from me, there are some key do's and don'ts when it comes to 'first date fashion'.

Ladies, if you are single then this serves you. If you're in a relationship this will also serve you  - albeit as some light entertainment.

Introducing first date fashion - a snapshot.

DO: 

- Wear something that shows skin - but not too much skin. The subtle art of 'leaving things to the imagination' has never been more poignant. So yes, get those legs out. Or yes, get your decollatage out. But for heavens sake, don't do both.

- Wear what makes you feel as awesome as you look. We've all been there - wearing an amazing dress that looks good on the outside, but is too tight/itchy/short etc. Let's face it, if the nerves on a first date are enough, the least you can do is wear something comfortable.

- Show your personality. I'm a strong believer that the clothes you wear say something about who you are. So choose something that fits with 'you' and don't try to be any different.

- Plan in advance. Okay, I'm not saying you need to go over-board, but having a few options in mind earlier on will ease of the pressure of getting ready later. It's either that or ending up in a mad rush, doing your make-up in the cab, Bridget Jones style.

DON'T:

- Be afraid of colour. Yes, I hear you. Black is the most flattering colour and often what makes us feel most 'safe'. But a pop of colour will create an impression - be it a coloured clutch or a bright skirt.

- Wear super high heels. There are two reasons for this - which is more important I'll leave that to you. a) the pain they will cause b) the fact that, if you're a tall girl like me, you risk towering over your date. #neveragain

- Ignore the weather forecast. As the temperature drops, what's worse than forgetting to wrap up properly? Unless, of course, your plan is for him to give you his jacket...

So there we go. First date fashion in a nutshell.

Happy Dating! x

My favourites: the pencil skirt

We all know there are many skirts out there - the midi, the peplum, the mini, the skater, the list goes on....But few have stood the test of time as the pencil skirt. Pair with heels, or, for an alternative look, with your favourite converse. Ideal for any age, and breaking the barriers of 'not just for the office', here are my favourite five right now.

1. The Pattered one 

Giant floral-print silk pencil skirt, now £130, Raey at MatchesFashion

2. The Leather one 

Faux Snakeskin pencil skirt, £99, Karen Millen

3. The Checked one 

Checked pencil skirt, £35, M&S collection

4.The Quirky one

Striped stretch-knit pencil skirt, now £159, Diane Von Furstenberg 

5. The Glam one

Rose Gold sequined pencil skirt, £28, Dorothy Perkins 

Brunching - a stylists view

Oh brunch. Are you even a millennial if you don't brunch? Bottomless brunches, pancake brunches, 'healthy' brunches, four-hour brunches....the list is endless. As will be your appetite. You could even go so far to say that brunch has displaced the afternoon tea - starting earlier and with the potential to last longer.

But what do you wear to such an affair? Here are four key pointers.

Image: Pinterest

Repeat after me, the looser the better 

Yes. If there's ever an occasion to feast this is it (bar Christmas, where eating becomes a full-time hobby). That means goodbye to your tight pants and your skin-tight leotards. Save them for the club, or when the only thing passing your lips is liquid. From first hand experience, anything with no breathing room will be instantly regrettable. Instead, opt for full-skirts and loose dresses. Perfect for hiding that inevitable food baby.

Pick your top carefully 

If millennials brunch, they also gram. When you're sat down, that means only half of you will make the cut, as you order your friend to take that perfect Insta photo #girlswhobrunch #basic. Opt for a pretty top and some light-touch jewellery. Or, if you really want to let your food do the talking, keep things understated with a plain white or black top. Matching your outfit to your food? Now that's a step too far. Though in ten years time?

Don't wear your best 

Now, we know you want to look good for your gram, for your company and for your food. But wearing that expensive dress is never a good idea when golden syrup/prosecco/[insert other brunch staple] risks spilling over you. It's just not worth the stress when your main focus should be the food - not avoiding the food's contact with your clothes. So leave that designer jumper alone and go care-free.

But do wear a layer 

What's more cute than girl + pancakes + cardigan draped around shoulders? A puppy, maybe. Layers will also ensure you stay warm whatever the venue temperature throws at you. The worse is feeling chilly in places where the air-con is full blast (we've all been there).

So that's that. Not much else really except a) be sure to scour that menu 100 times b) order at least 4 glasses of prosescco and/or tomato juice and c) only leave when your belly is fully satisfied. Hear hear.

You can leave your hat on

Hats have many practical purposes - from keeping you warm (thanks, beanie) to keeping you cool (thanks, wide-brim). They act as the perfect solution for covering up yet another bad hair day, as well as protecting you from the rain.

Image: Pinterest

And they also have the power to act as a major fashion statement. You only have to look at something like The Royal Ascot, a British event where women are encouraged to 'wear smart attire with a hat or fascinator'. Yes, you heard that right, a fascinator - a light, decorative headpiece that's a combination of hat and those fancy headbands you wore in year 9 dance class. 

Other fashion statements? Well, everyone links the iconic Audrey Hepburn with the black, chic, oversized hat she wore in Breakfast at Tiffany's. And the catwalk - from high end designers like Chanel, to the more affordable Topshop, will also use hats as a standout piece on the runway. 

So what does this mean for us? Well, whereas once hats were something more 'practical', the last five years or so have seen a real shift in incorporating hats into fashion and general aesthetic 'fun' - regardless of any practicality they may serve. Indeed, fashion is cyclical and this is a perfect example of that. Go back to the Edwardian or Victorian era and huge hats were all the rage - a sign of status and, crucially, a major fashion statement.  

Image: Pinterest

If there's one thing I'm excited about this Autumn, it's pulling out a mustard yellow beanie hat to brighten up my day (and outfit). It'll be snug and warm, yes. But it'll also look bloody awesome. On my recent holiday to Greece, I took not one, not two, but three hats with me. Okay, this is in part because I never pack light, but also because it gave me so much option when it came to outfits. There was the khaki cap (typically worn with denim shorts for a boyish look), the floppy sandy hat (perfect for the beach) and the black wide brim hat (a more formal, crisp option).

So there we go. Get happy - or should that be hatty. Be as mad as a hatter. Forget sex appeal, it's all about hat appeal. Okay, will stop now - but just remember, you can leave your hat on...

There's a bikini for that!

Image: Pinterest

Holiday season is nearly over - but not just yet. I say that while I dash off to Greece for the last stint of summer, in search of golden sands. And a beach holiday means it is time to dig out last year's bikini - or maybe invest in a new set because last year's is, well, so last year. 

However, never have us bikini lovers been so spoilt for choice. With so many styles now, including high leg briefs, waisted bottoms, and not to mention cut-out swimsuits (which are just as sexy as a bikini), choosing your favourite is not a straightforward affair.

But you needn't fear. For the full low-down on what bikini to choose for which occasion, look no further.

Best for: an all day pool party 

Image: BrandAlley

All day pool parties can be raucous affairs - which means a proper fitting bikini is essential if you're going to be splish-splashing around in the water. Opt for a halter-neck style bikini for full support, and bikini bottoms that are NOT tied at the side. Trust me, you don't want something that risks coming loose. High-waisted ones are fab for swimming around in the water (or simply trying to hijack that pink flamingo for an Instagram pic).

Best for: lounging on a beach 

Image: Pinterest

By contrast, lounging on a beach involves minimal movement - expect to top up your suncream and reach over to sip that mojito. In which case, go for a bandeau style bikini top without straps (great to avoid dreaded tan lines) and high cut briefs. Select a bright colour to stand out from the other 1,803 British tourists also trying to seriously tan before returning to the office.


Best for: watching the sunset 

Image: UK Swimwear

No holiday is complete without watching a sunset one night - and a full piece swimsuit is best for this as the temperature drops. Pick one that has a plunge neck-line (on trend now), or with cut out sides at the waist (also seen on the catwalk) for a big stylist tick. Alternatively, choose one that is full at the front, but backless, for a sophisticated yet understated look.

Best for: surfing and volleyball

Image: Pinterest

Holiday sports call for briefs paired with a cami top. No fuss, full support and hotter than hell (to quote Dua Lipa). Essentially, this type of bikini is ideal for taking you from beach volleyball to surfing back to beach volleyball. But be sure to stay hydrated - with all that sweat you may just have to order another pina-colada. It's a hard life..

My favourites: the lace top

Few things are as pretty, sophisticated and easy to wear than a lace top. When you want to feel dressy but not overdone, team with a pair of black jeans. Alternatively, wear with a skirt to enhance all levels of femininity. Just be sure to keep it simple and let the top steal the show...

Here are my favourite 5 right now:

1. The Ruffled one 

Self-portrait ruffled lace top, £200, Net-a-porter

2. The White one 

High Neck Lace Blouse, £50, Lipsy

3.  The Sleeveless one 

Fringe-Trim Lace top, £49.50, Banana Republic

4. The Quirky one 

Flora lace top in multi-coloured, £70, French Connection 

5. The Off-The-Shoulder one 

Lovedrobe cold shoulder lace top, £42, Marisota 

Festivals, Carnivals and all that jazz

Yes, it's that time of the year again. People are spotted wearing 5+ wrist bands up their arm and glitter sales from Amazon are about to go through the roof. It can only mean one thing. Festivals and carnivals are back! If there was ever a chance to get fun with fashion - this is it. When else can you look like you've been pulled backwards through a rainbow bush and still look hot?

Image: Pinterest

For the record, Glastonbury is not on this year but there are many others to keep you occupied. Be it Secret Garden party, Coachella, Bestival, RiZE...the list goes on. And let's not forget the fact it is Carnival season too - the most famous Notting Hill Carnival, London.

So what does all this mean for your attire? Well, it means that 'day-to-day' dressing goes out the window - unless you are a) over 50 and b) the fun police. 

Instead, it's a fantastic opportunity to experiment. I love the use of crotchet fabric that is otherwise fairly risque. Festivals give licence for extra skin on show, so why not try a top that incorporates this style of material. Likewise, I'm a sucker for a cropped bodice....just pick one with a fun pattern (think juicy strawberries or bright yellow sunflowers).

Crotchet fabric. Image: Pinterest

And it's also a time to get out the dungarees! Again, this look seems to reach its hype during festivals and carnivals, and it's easy to see why - they are phenomenally comfy but also easy to dress up with a colourful t-shirt and heaps of jewellery. Think farmer chic meets boho goddess.

We've experienced a heatwave here in England - recently offset by some showers which was pretty welcomed. That said, everyone still wishes for a hot sunny day when attending a festival. But do you know the great thing about it if it rains? It means the WELLIES can come out. Again, when else do people wear wellies this much? Indeed, even if it is hot and dry, no one will batter an eye when you parade out your tent wearing the latest Hunters. 

Alexa Chung in Hunter wellies. Image: Pinterest

Also, let's not also forget the bum-bags. For 10 months of the year these are not a good look. But for the two in summer, they so are. Funny how these have such a seasonal dependency. However, the practicalities of wearing a bum-bag to music events is a big plus - hands free and secure, you can boogie on to Ed Sheeran's Shape of You until the early hours.

And finally. Glitter. Lots of it. Pink, purple, blue, gold, silver. The more the better. Shimmer over cheekbones, collarbones and decolletage. Just be warned that you *will* still find specks of glitter in the most random places come November. Worth it? Hell yeah.

Pendant perfection

There's something delightful about a simple, elegant pendant necklace. It can say a lot about your personality, your mood, your taste. Be it gold or silver, every woman should have at least one of these in her jewellery box. Here's the low-down on some of the most popular shapes out there.

1. The horseshoe

As the old adage goes, horseshoes are meant to be lucky. Wear this charm to your interview, your first date or when you want fate to work in your favour. Choose a plain pendant shape or one with added embellishment.

2. The four leaf clover

Image: Tiffany

Ah! The luck of the Irish. Another 'lucky' charm that you can wear around your neck. A change from a standard flower, this is a force to be reckoned with. If - like me - you have yet to find a four leaf clover in real life, then at least you can wear its shining substitute.

3. The half moon 

One of my personal favourites, there's something timeless about this shape. Not only does it remind us of the universe/galaxy (somewhat grounding) it has a sleek shape that goes with most items in your wardrobe.

4. The heart 

A classic, and one of the most popular pendant shapes. Forget wearing your heart on your sleeve, wear it on your neck for a dash of love. Perfect for moments with your loved ones - be it friends, family or partners.

5. The diamond

Image: Maya Magal

Shine bright like a diamond, once sang Rhianna. A diamond shaped pendant has a angular shape that works best with sharp cuts (think shoulder padded blazer). For the full effect, choose one that uses diamonds as part of its design.

6. The stud

The most simple out of all, this round shape can almost go unnoticed if small in size. But when the light falls on this circle of silver/gold, it has a wonderfully understated effect. If you're not really a jewellery person, then this one is for you.

Feeling inspired? For more shapes and designs, head to Gem & Company and enjoy 20% off all purchases with the code 'NILUKA20'

No time, no problem

We have all been there. You are ridiculosuly comfy in your bed, enjoying the satisfaction of a few hours rest while watching the latest on Netflix (or LoveIsland, if that's your thing). You are fully aware that you have a night out later and time is ticking. But boy is your bed comfy and the thought of making an effort to get ready is, well, effort.

This happened to me last night. However, when you have less time than you would like (even if through choice!) there are some nifty ways of cutting corners.

Firstly, thank the inventors of dry shampoo. Yes. Washing hair takes time - as does the blow dry and styling that comes with it. Save a good 20 minutes by spritzing some dry shampoo through your roots instead. There are so many varieties out there - includidng perfumed and volume-added ones - that the possiblities are #endless.

Secondly, make a 5 minute stir-fry. Short of time does not mean short of dinner. Whip up some stir-fry vegetables, ready-cooked meat or tofu, sauce, and damn you are done. Unfortunatly this will never be a food blog (sorry mum) BUT this recipe will tick the box when it comes to getting ready in DAMN QUICK time. And that's all that matters right?

Also, choose the outfit that is tried and tested. Now is not the time to be experimenting or calling your friends for their opinion. Stick to your guns and go for the outfit you know will work. For most women, this tends to be a fitted black dress. Always flattering, it'll never let you down. Alternatively if you have planned ahead of time, then getting ready in a rush is altogether less stressful because you already know exactly what you're wearing.

Another thing that works is ditching the fancy eye-shadow and make-up. Unless you are the next top make-up artist, a smokey eye (for example) really does take time to do. And rushing it could risk a black-eye look. Or mirroring the scene in Bridget Jones where she ends up putting her make-up on in the car. Hilarious to watch, less hilarious in real life.

And finally - set a timer to actually leave. Or rather, 10 minutes before you need to leave. During this time: shoes on, baththroom stop, bag-check and an obliged Insta pic. Oh, to be a millennial these days.....

A perfect picnic

Balmy, warm evenings call for something rather delightful. Long and lazy picnics until the sun sets - which these days is around 9pm. Happy (long) days. Whereas once all I wanted to do in the evening was hibernate in a dressing gown and wonder if I was dying from vitamin D deficiency, now, an evening spent in the park with strawberries and food is actually a viable option.

Image: pinterest

When having a picnic, I always wear a dress of some sort. Picnics are made for pretty dresses (as are garden parties). Think floral dresses or a cute denim ones. Just ensure it's loose and comfy. One thing I've realised is sitting on the grass means that super short or fitted things spoil the fun of a picnic. And who wants to be uncomfortable after all.

Speaking of sitting on the grass. Be sure to bring a blanket with you! Freshly mown grass may smell delightful, but stuck to your dress....less so.... Failing a blanket, you could always drape a scarf around you and then multi-task it for the purposes of the picnic. Though of course you will need to wash it after - and preferably use a darker colour to avoid any grass stains.

What else? Well, sandals are a must. Because you want to take your shoes off for full picnic liberation. I love digging my bare feet into the grass. You know when people talk about 'the simple things in life'? I genuinely think this is one. Painted toe-nails and/or ankle bracelets gain extra picnic points.

Image: pinterest

Now to get down to business. Ensure you bring a large-enough handbag/bucket bag/oversized bag in order to pick up your food and drink on the way. Preferably get your friends to do the same, so you can share the load. A plastic Tesco carrier bag doesn't quite have the same effect, nor will withstand however many bottles of prossecco you decide to bring...

Oh and, depending on the destination, be sure to pack suncream (!) A lazy evening picnic may be deceiving given the sun is going down, but trust me you can still tan (or burn). And a picnic - no matter how perfect - is never worth the red look.

The only thing now is to decide what park to picnic in. Well that, dear reader, I leave to you.

My favourites: the flapper dress

Reaching its peak in 1920's America, the flapper dress has stood the test of time. Creating an androgynous look, the loose fitting style is both elegant and understated. But the embellishment of flapper dresses is where the real glamour lies. These are my five favourite out there right now.

1. The Floral one 

Embellished flapper dress, £65, House of Fraser

2. The Beaded one

Hollywood Vintage Inspired Fringe Flapper Dress, £125, Gatsby London

3. The Zig-Zagged one 

Liz Vintage Flapper Dress, £89, GirlMeetsDress.com

4. The Red one

Boutique Evelyn Hand Beaded Shift Dress, £35, Boohoo

5. The Understated one

Beaded Flapper Dress, £115, Label Lab at House of Fraser 

In my handbag: summer edit

This bank holiday has been rather delicious weather wise. For those of you not in the UK, a bank holiday is an extended weekend of three days. Everyone goes a bit giddy when they come round - especially when it coincides with some sunshine.

Those who know me well know I love to carry a handbag, filled with necessities. In the summer, the contents change a little. And to excuse you from having to nab a peek yourself, here's an insider's download, with a few hacks thrown in too.

First up, warmer weather calls for flimsier, strappier shoes. Whenever I'm wearing my sandals, I know the hot weather will result in some inevitable rubbing and, as a result, inevitable blisters. Unless you carry a tiny tub of Vaseline in your bag. Ladies, this is THE best hack I know. Just pop a little Vaseline on where the suspected rubbing will occur and a blister is far less likely. Carrying a small pot in my bag means I can top this up wherever I go - or walk.

Pinterest

Another thing: face mist. When it get's hot, this mist is ideal to spray over you face. It keeps you fresh, dewy and glowing. It's highly soothing on the skin when the heat may otherwise dry it out. Just pack a small bottle in your bag. Failing that, a tiny spray bottle with some lemon infused water is your next best bet - and 10X cheaper.

Hands up who else loves reading? Yes. A book or magazine is in my handbag during those days I want to sit outside and just chill. Cosmo is my go-to light read. Or, if I'm feeling a bit more pensive, something like Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman or another psychological orientated book. Whatever your taste, have something with you for those times you end up in a cafe/garden/park with time to spare.

It goes without saying but: SUNGLASSES. Or rather, the sunglasses will be on my head so it's the sunglasses case you'll actually find in my handbag. Speaking of which - carry a case with you at all times if possible. It means you're far less likely to loose your shades, plus protects them from scratches. You'll also find some eye drops in my bag. Less exciting, but keeping the eyes moist in the sun is really important.

And finalllllllllly. My juicy lipgloss. If winter was all about the matte crimson lipstick, summer is all about the light dewy gloss. Opt for one with hidden SPF if possible. Like a set of keys, this is an essential component in my handbag.

Essential. Yes, really.

You know it's hot when....

This week has given us the first very taste of Summer. There were more joggers soaking up the morning sun, more people with an extra spring in their step as they made their daily commute. I, for one, was feeling good. As Nina Simone once sang, 'Sun in the sky, you know how I feel'. I also noticed a few key indicators clothes wise that confirmed, yep, we have reached a turning point in the British weather. How many have you seen?

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1. Sunglasses come out. Even if you're travelling underground. What better excuse to hide those late night bags. Ray Ban's are packed in handbags. Or rather, propped on heads, ready to be worn at every opportunity.

2. White shirts are totally a thing. As we all know, black absorbs the heat. White reflects the rays. Plus, it makes you look kind of effervescent and luminous.

3. The tights come off. So long the days of having to wear tights with that cute dress/skirt. Bare leg season is making a come-back for another year. Pass the razor.

4. As do socks. Which means one thing...hello sandals! From gladiator sandals to espadrailles to open-toe ones, it's time to invest in some new shoes. Either that, or dig out last year's pair.

5. Brighter colours. Somehow, sun solicits wearing brighter colours. Perhaps it's the mood-boosting serotonin (those 'happy hormones') that mean we are more likely to pick that orange top over the grey one.

6. Cardigans draped over shoulders. I love - repeat, love - this look. It is so dainty, so Audrey Hepburn, so goddam summery. Take Alexa Chung's cue below...

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7. Sports wear? Now includes shorts. Forget wearing long leggings for that gym session/run/work-out. Hello, short shorts. Goodbye, chances of a 2018 work-out video.

8. Coats go into hibernation. Trench coats, faux-fur coats, padded coats, gilets.....Archive them as easy as that annoying Whattsapp conversation.

9. Patterns! Just like brighter colours, people tend to choose more patterns when the sun is out. Yesterday alone I spotted: sea shells, oranges, flowers and (I think) monkeys. Really.

10. Smiles. Okay, not technically clothes but as the saying goes, 'The prettiest thing you can wear is a smile' - especially in the sunshine, who could argue with that.

Now to get back outside....sunglasses at the ready.

Top of the crops

The crop top is a love/hate item for most women. Wear it right and it can be oh so chic. Wear it after that three course meal and the bloat is real. Now the weather is (finally!) returning to normality, the sight of Spring - and indeed Summer - is less dream than reality. And that means it's well and truly time to dig out those mid-driff skimming tops. Hurrah.

When it comes to crop tops, there's no one way to style them. These are my favourite options.

Look 1: Classic crop top + high-waisted skirt.

Quite possibly the easiest way to style a crop top. Just find a skirt that'll do the trick. If out for a classy or formal evening, opt for a longer skirt. Pleated versions or the A-line skirt (which made a comeback last year) work nicely. Otherwise, a shorter skirt presents a more relaxed look, perfect for day outings.

Look 2: With 'mom' jeans. 

A bit more chilled. A crop top worn with wider mom jeans looks effortlessly stylish - and is incredibly easy to do too. Pair with chunky belt and oversized shades for major Jessica Alba just nipped to the supermarket vibes.

Look 3: Go quirky with trousers.

And patterned trousers at that. The top just acts as a complimentary piece during this look, so keep it plain and simple. Choose bold printed trousers and let them do the talking. [Click here for some flared options] Feeling more brave? Choose matching crop top/trouser for a high-fashion catwalk look.

Look 4: Under dungarees. 

This is a wonderful way of styling the crop top, because it exposes your torso only from the side allowing a subtle flash of skin. Think denim dungarees worn with a Breton top underneath. Picnic outfit, sorted. Just match with flat pumps or espadrilles for cute, girl-next-door style.

All images, Pinterest

City break essentials

Recently, I headed to Lisbon, Portugal for a much needed city break. We spent our time there and in Cascais, a seaside town about 30 minutes away. Travelling in March, the weather was the biggest question mark over the holiday - and what to pack. Luckily for us, we experienced a few sunny days. But also some terrible showers too!

Packing the correct clothes for an out-of-season holiday (or indeed any UK holiday all year) can be tricky. That said, there are a few things to take so that you are always be prepared, whatever the weather. 

Image: Pinterest

First up, layers, layers, layers. My friend and I could have clothed a small family with the amount of cardigans, shawls and jumpers we had between us. Layers are a brilliant way of keeping you warm while also allowing you to moderate your temperature when the sun comes out. (Think a cardigan tied around your waist or loosely hung over shoulders). If you know the weather might get a bit too nippy, I would recommend packing a scarf too.

Select your coat wisely. If the forecast shows some chance of rain, a hooded coat is your best option. For the 20 minute showers we experienced in Lisbon, this was an absolute life saver. And THE best protection against the dreaded, humid, frizzy hair look.

Image: Pinterest

Although I spent a lot of the holiday in a pair of good jeans, I also packed some skirts and dresses for the evening. When it's a drizzly but still warm, sheer tights are the answer. They allow you to mix up your outfit from the standard top/jeans look, while giving you some coverage. And if it  gets hotter? Like a jumper, just take it off!

Now let'ts not forget sunglasses. Chances are there will be some sunny moments. Squinting at the beautiful architecture or tourist attractions is not ideal. One pair packed in your bag is all you need.

Speaking of bags, this one is up to personal preference. However, taking into account a) ease of walking and b) safety, a secure rucksack or a sling over bag is probably your best shout. I opted for a compact canvas rucksack so I could fit my umbrella/water bottle/sunglasses/cardigan inside, but a sling over bag works well too if you prefer to have less on you. Both free up your hands for much needed Intsa-gramming and coffee drinking.Win Win.

So there we go - a quick guide to city break essentials, drawn from experience. Now to book that next holiday...