Stripe It Out

Happy Bank Holiday Weekend angels! We’ve all just been paid, I’ve got Marvin Gaye blasting with a gin and tonic in hand and a Saturday has never felt so good. (Yes it's 3o'clock, but so whuuut!) Three days weekends are most definitely good for the soul. This weekend I’m off to see my best mate Molly in Brighton for a weekend of fun and to see Eats Everything tonight- so excited. Blog post will follow shortly I’m sure!

Anyway, onto the outfit. I’m a sucker for stripes. Horizontal, vertical, red, blue, multi-coloured- you name it I’ll wear it. They just have that completely wearable multi-seasonal vibe going for them; stripes don’t ever seem to age and have always been a classic ‘wardrobe essential.’ So these trousers are my current favourite out of the Alex stripe family. Admittedly, I wasn’t sure if I looked like a deck chair when I initially wore them but these have become my go to when I’m not sure what to wear but still want to make a bit of a statement. I dress them with a smart tassel loafer for work or teamed with my Adidas Superstars and cute crop for everyday like I have above.

What’s your favourite die-hard striped piece in your wardrobe? Is it a staple of yours too? Happy Satuday lovelies!

A x

Coachella Vibes

Coachella is rubbing off on me. I think all the Instagram/Twitter stalking from the weekend has meant I’ve channelled my inner hippie into my everyday wardrobe. But hey, I’m not even sorry. Gimme some suede, a silky wide legged jumpsuit plus a tassel bag and I’m a happy bunny.

I’m into wide legged anything at the moment- its something that us shorter petite girls shouldn’t be afraid of trying- culottes and wide legs are our friends not enemies ladies! The key to having a wide leg on your bottom half is keeping the top tighter- this ensures you don’t completely lose your body shape under all that extra fabric. I love the paisley style sixties print of this jumpsuit and when I nip in my waist with a skinny brown belt I know I’ll be comfortable all day plus it also highlights the best part of my shape and hiding any areas I don’t like.

When I was putting the outfit details/links for this post I realised that I was pretty much wearing head to toe Missguided. This was completely accidental (this isn’t a sponsored post, I promise!), however I do think that Missguided are such a solid option if you’re after a new statement piece that doesn’t break the bank. This mustard suede jacket has easily been the best piece I’ve ever bought off their site- I picked it up last year for only £30 and I’ve had so much wear out of it. Whenever I put it on I nearly always get a compliment as I feel it looks a bit more high end with the suede style fabric and classic biker style cut. I also love their grey version that they’ve got on the site at the moment too.

In general the whole 70's vibe isn't very dominant in this seasons collections (read all about my top picks of the key S/S'16 styles here) but when it's the Coachella time of year, you just gotta do as the romans do, ay?!

Has Coachella been inspiring your wardrobe picks lately?

A x

March Favourites

Happy Monday fun day my Angels! As previously mentioned, I’ve been a bit s**t with posting towards the of March/early April and there isn’t a better way of getting back on track than with a good ol’ monthly favourites. I picked up a few wonderous little products throughout March that I thought you guys would love, so without further ado, lets get going!

Mercury Glass Jar Candle, Anthropologie

Much to my bank balances' dismay, my addiction to candles doesn’t seem to have subsided yet. This is the new addition to the Alex candle collection from Anthropolgie. I won’t lie, the blue candle with rose gold gold tint and lid were what attracted me to it in the first place but the really summery fresh scent that this badboy gives off is the ultimate bonus. It’s got a slight tropical fruit scent to it- sugared oranges, lemons and limes in the ingredients somewhat prove that- but it's not too sweet that it becomes too sickly. It has just the right amount of sweetness and the fresh undertone makes it the perfect Spring scented candle. Anthro, you did good guys…

every.day.counts Moleskin Journal

I picked up this little beauty while I was with the boyf in Amsterdam back in February. I think coming from a background of endlessly mind mapping ideas and creating random sketches I have a bit of a love affair with a good ol’ notepad. In general I’m a sucker for stationary but there's something so satisfying about having a really lovely notepad to jot down ideas and I think it makes me more organised as I enjoy writing in it and keep track of things. This is my new notepad addition (not that I really needed any more…) that I picked up from the brand every.day.counts. Admittedly I didn’t buy it for the branding but merely because I loved the statement on the front- it sends a positive message whenever I pick it up that helps to keep me motivated and working hard. Plus, with Moleskin products you know its going to be good quality- the leather cover feels amazing (equally the smell is just as satisfying) and since starting my new job I’ve somewhat enjoyed notetaking a bit more- as lame as that sounds! Love.

Reasons To Stay Alive by Matt Haig

I was recommended to read this book by a friend and I am so glad I took her advice to buy it- it has helped to develop my own understanding of mental health so much more. Haig’s purpose of this book isn’t to define what anxiety or depression is, but it’s merely a space to articulate his own experience. It makes me wish there were more Andreas in the world and it gives a voice to those who find that words escape them. I honestly don’t think there is a single person who would not benefit from reading Reasons To Stay Alive- it made me both laugh and cry with its mix of both wit and tenderness. If you buy one book this year please let it be this one, Joanne Harris said ‘Sometimes depression can be like falling into a wordless pit. Matt Haig finds the words. And he says them for all of us.’ He absolutely does and I am extremely thankful that I picked it up this month.

Barry M Gelly Nail Polish in Almond

I think recently with the change of weather and it now being officially Spring I’ve put away the deep reds and purples in favour for a more natural nude nail polish. I’m normally one for bright oranges or pastels but I think going into more of an ‘office’ job I’ve had to maybe bring it down a bit so I’d been using the Barry M Gelly polish in the colour Almond a lot last month. It makes my nails look naturally longer plus in general the Gelly collection seem to last a lot longer than other high street polishes I’ve used. It's simple but adds that manicured elegant touch, it goes with all outfits and is a great colour if you’re normally not one for going for brash colours on your fingertips.

Naked 3 Palette by Urban Decay

In all honesty, I’m not going to talk about this very much… You've heard it all before. We all know how wonderfully pigmented and perfect the Naked Palette’s are so I won’t go on about their amazing pigmentation and longevity. In particular I’ve loved using the shades Buzz, Dust and Liar together to create a really fresh pink coloured eyes that really gets me in a Spring mood.

Vanishing Cream moisturiser, Lush

You all know I’m a sucker for Lush. I trust their ethos, their products and ingredients so I always feel like they're a safe option when I'm in need for some products for my skin. I’ve recently ran out of my Origins Night-A-Mins moisturiser so I thought I’d pop into Lush for a cheaper alternative and this one didn't disappoint. As I have quite blemish prone oily sin this was the perfect for helping to balance out my skin levels but also keeping it moisturised and fresh throughout the day. I didn't wake up with that greasy layer in the morning at all. The scent has a hint of lavender, the consistency is fairly light which helps it soak into the face without leaving it greasy plus is also a really good base for makeup. At only £18 a pot- that lasts for ages I might add- I think this is definitely my favourite moisturiser to date and one I'll definitely be reaching for instead of Origins in the future.

Suede knotted Chocker Necklace, Urban Outfitters

As someone who usually tends to go for a big chunky embellished necklace I wanted something a bit more minimal so I picked up this chocker from Urban. I didn’t previously think I used to like chocker’s but I’ve definitely been converted with this simple knotted necklace in a lariat shape. It adds a bit of a nineties vibe to whatever I'm wearing it plus it makes a nice change from always wearing a massive beaded necklace in favour of something a bit more dainty.

Fishnet socks, ASOS

Pretty self explanatory but I’ve been loving wearing my fishnet socks recently- admittedly they were hard to photograph but I tend to throw them on with everything and they add just an extra cool touch to any outfit that I've got on. If you buy a pair make sure to pop on a pair of ankle socks first then the fishnets over the top to stop any snagging or hole making as you put them on. I also got these in a load of other colours.

Halterneck Top, Urban Outfitters

I'd been on the hunt recently to find some really good staple crop tops to throw on in the summer with high waisted shorts and jeans, and this halter neck from Urban is perfect. I actually picked this one up in three different colours as I thought they were a great basic shape to have in my wardrobe ready for when the sun comes out and I love the contrasting colours of the straps and main fabric of this crop. I’ll be uploading a post soon where I wear one of these so you can see what they're like on, but they’re a good thing to add in your wardrobe if you want a more retro inspired cami plus the cross detailing on the back looks super cute under a sheer kimono.

Blog of the Month, The Minimalist Baker

If there is one place that I know I'll find a load of recipe inspiration, it's The Minimalist Baker blog. Dana creates the most delicious instagrammable food recipes that can be super healthy if you're on a health hype but she also covers some well earned sugary treats if you're in need chocolate fix. Her no bake nutty bars are a personal favourite of mine at the moment- I'm thinking of doing a blog post on this soon- and whatever food you're craving, you know that the Minimalist Baker is definitely the place to go to get a recipe for it.

Quote of the month

'All glory comes from daring to begin' - Anonymous

So that’s it from me for today! I hope your Monday isn’t going to awfully- good news is we’re already half way through the day so that means we’re half a day closer to the weekend, right? Let me know if you’ve bought any of the products I’ve been loving this month and what you thought as I’d love to know what you think.

Have you had any other favourite products in March that I haven’t mentioned and I should try? Happy Monday Angels!

A x

Coachella v Glastonbury

I’m suffering Coachella blues. Already my Twitter and Instagram feed has become inundated with pictures of clear blue skies, girls parading their endless legs in ridiculously short high waisted Levi’s, picturesque sunsets and cowgirl inspired festival fashion everywhere. I mean seriously, everybody seems to be wearing enormous embellished necklaces, Miley-inspired hair buns and brown suede tassels. But hey who am I to talk, I know I’d be doing the same if I was there. But the most depressing thing is, I’m not. *Crying Emoji*

So taking this somewhat gloomy matter into account I thought I’d cheer up those of you who aren’t there about something which is bigger, better and typically British that tops Coachella: Glastonbury 2016. If you’re lucky enough to go to Coachella then good on you, but for those who have invested in Glasto tickets this year, you’ve got the better idea. I think for us Brits Coachella is like a dreamy wonderland that the vast majority probably won’t attend, (which I probably adds to its allure) but what we don’t realise is that Glastonbury tops it. ‘HOW?’ I hear you ask, I’ve weighed up some key factors that will show exactly why Glasto reigns supreme….

1- Weather

Okay, so Coachella does beat Glastonbury hands down. With an average temperature of around 33 degrees you can top up your tan and cool down in the number of pool parties littered round the festival no problem. Glastonbury on the other hand, is on the other side of the spectrum. Known for its thick mud and typically British rainy weather, you know you wouldn’t dare forget your wellies. Let’s face it– going to a festival when it doesn’t rain can make it that much better; with the sun beating down, tunes playing in the background and a cider in your hand, it does reach near perfection.

Coachella 1: Glastonbury-0

2- Festival Schedule

Both festivals have amazing artists so it is always going to be difficult to create a schedule that doesn’t make your favourite acts clash. But for me, Glastonbury has the edge over Coachella. Coachella acts finish at 12.30am- they do apparently have a silent disco after this time- but the nightlife at Glastonbury is just as top notch as its day presence. Who would want to miss the Spider Stage or the festival’s legendary after-hours area Shangri-La? With a maze of covered alleys riddled with nano-venues, performers and installations, artworks and hidden doors Glastonbury is the clear winner.

Coachella 1: Glastonbury 1

3- Draaaaaankz

Being able to take in as many bevs as you want puts Glastonbury way out in front with this one, plus you can take them anywhere you want in the multiple areas that make up the Glasto map. There is a range of different bars for festival goers- plus a main bar for each stage making it easy to pick up a cider if you need it- dotted around all areas of the site. At Coachella however, drinking alcohol is only permitted in designated areas, which offer a distant view of the two main stages. What’s a festival without a can in hand dancing away to your favourite act? Cya Coachella.

Coachella 1: Glastonbury 2

4- Creativity & Day Activities

Unless you’re still passed out in your car/tent from the previous days antics, both of these festivals provide mind blowing creative installations and day activities to cure your hangover. The Snail Surfing installation in particular at Coachella is a favourite of mine, but due to the size of Glastonbury, they’ve got a lot more to offer. Watch the latest film releases, poetry readings, circus acts, a wide range of bands and a load more.

Coachella 1: Glastonbury 3

5- Camping

Coachella is known to be really organised in the way you’re allowed to camp. Each vehicle has its own 30’ x 10’ spot for camping whereas Glasto is a free for all. You can literally throw up your tent anywhere and hope you make it back to the right area on your way back from Shangri-La at 6am. While this could be highly entertaining walking into the wrong tent, Coachella makes it easier so I guess they’ve got this one.

Coachella 2: Glastonbury 3

6- Line Up

In terms of artists both festivals create an awesome line-up that can cater to everyone’s taste but Glastonbury has this one in the bag. Number 1 being that Coachella cannot compete with the hundreds of artists that perform at Glastonbury across a huge selection of stages. And number 2: Adele is headlining this year. I mean, how incredible will it be when she rocks up in her custom made Burberry gown teamed with a pair of wellies belting out ballads to thousands?! You’d never think the combination would work but I can’t wait.

Coachella 2: Glastonbury 4

7- Price

A ticket to Coachella is around $350 (£235) compared to Glastonburys £216. Already Glasto is cheaper but don’t forget to buy your flight out to California that will set you back a pretty penny. Yes it’s a bit biased as I am a Brit and I live within an hour of Somerset, but Glastonbury beats Coachella again. Sorry ‘bout it.

Coachella 2: Glastonbury5

8- Crowd Atmosphere

At Glastonbury the crowds do not mess around: they go hard and you won’t catch them leaving early for their tents- they stay out until the sun comes up the next day. At Coachella apparently people wore ear plugs at the front of Red Hot Chilli Peppers, were asked to not sing a long to special guest R Kelly and have countless groups of people sitting down to headline acts. YAWN.

Coachella 2 : Glastonbury 6

9- Fashion

How can I do a comparison of two amazing festivals without looking at their fashion? As a an obvious clothes Trojan this is one of the best things about going to a festival: wearing whatever the f**k you want, having so much glitter on your face that you find it days later and rocking the dry shampoo’d hair as there is absolutely no way of salvaging it otherwise. Comparing the two, there is no denying the uber-cool vibe of Coachella fashion: LA girls parading their perfectly tanned skin and Wild West fringing belonging on every inch of their metropolitan bodies. They somehow manage to make their grandmas bedsheet belted as a mini dress look awesome with oversized hats, brown ankle boots and enough jewellery that would make a magpie jealous. But there is something about Glastonbury that makes it better. Nobody looks exactly the same. Coachella has that vibe nailed, and like I said if I were there I’d probably do the same, but the beauty of Glastonbury is that you could see a girl rocking a sequinned kimono, velvet body suit, studded bumbag and Hunter wellies next to a guy dressed up in a Zebra harem pants, old-school band tee, bandana and ray bans and think absolutely nothing of it. Not that I’m saying anyone would be blown away in the fashion stakes with Zebra trousers but one thing that makes British fashion so interesting is its diversity. From grunge, to glam, to festival chic like you’d wear at Coachella those who attend Glastonbury make it quintessentially British: we wear what we want, however we want. That in itself is something that can never be compared to Coachella. Coachella you’re cool but you ain’t got nothing on our individuality.

Glastonbury, you’re just awesome basically.

So that’s it for my little post today. Yes you can see Kylie Jenner post pouting pictures of herself wearing the new Lip Kit colour and Peach wig all weekend but June brings Glastonbury that is bigger and even better. Yes you’ll be suffering the Coachella blues with me as you see images of beautiful desert sunsets when its grey and raining here as per usual, but it's better than spending a weekend with a bunch of self loving, fashion conscious Coachella go-ers right? Look to 22^nd-26^th of June to pick up your mood and remember we’ve got this International Festival shizz in the bag. Even if you’re not going to Glasto the BBC supply all the coverage of the festival you’d need so you can feel slightly more involved, and if that isn’t enough, I’ll be in my corner of the Internet supplying cyber hugs as I’ll be suffering the blues with you.

Which festival would you rather go to, Coachella or Glastonbury? Happy Saturday my angels!

A x

An Apologetic Comeback

Hello, it’s me. I was wondering if after all these years you’d like to meet… * Adele Voice *

Well shit, it’s been nearly a month since I posted last and in the words of the ever-wonderful Adele it genuinely does feel like years. So I start this post with a grovelling apology. Having started my blog in January it’s been my own little escape to dress up, write, review, and create and I have felt a little lost this month without it. Yes, I should have scheduled a load of content for you angels to enjoy, but in my defence I’ve been a little busy becaaaause… Drum roll please…

I’ve got a new job!

Yep you heard it right- I’m no longer working in retail and hopefully this time it’ll be for good. While I will undoubtedly continue shopping at Urban and love the wonderful Bath store staff it felt good to leave behind strange working hours and finally get the marketing based experience I’ve been so desperate for since I left Jack Wills in December. As you know, a while back I got an interview (check out what I wore here) and after thinking I absolutely bombed it I got a very surprising call a few days later to say they thought I had some great ideas, I was full of enthusiasm and offered me the job! Hurrah.

So this creator of this mad little Alex-Fashion-Captive-La-la-Land is now officially a Merchandiser at The Consortium! Admittedly I never thought I’d get into a merchandising role, however this is a lot more marketing based, and I couldn’t be happier. While the company itself is not a Fashion orientated business it will give me key experience (hey CV update!) and insight into an area of the industry I haven’t had the opportunity to try. The company itself is close to home so I’m able to stay with my family (and let’s be serious, the pay is a sh*tload better than what I’ve previously earned on minimum wage!) While I know I want to work within a Fashion business in the future I am enjoying my current role and if after a while I find I want to move on, it will really put me in a better position on another job hunt.

What I’m trying to say is after handing in my two-week notice at Urban Outfitters I was getting myself in a new mind-set to understand a brand new company, a brand new role and a brand new load of responsibility which got me completely side-tracked from my blog posting. Plus, when you get a brand new job you’ve got to do some celebrating right? I was fortunate to have a few of my wonderful uni gang- Lauren, Soph and Marcus- down for the weekend where we went and partied aaaaaall night long. (Seriously, blogging on a hangover is like, impossible so that’s another reason why I haven’t posted haha!) So I thought I’d throw in some pictures of our evening adventure- standard train picture thrown in for good measure- so this post isn’t entirely wordy.

Sophie wears: Dress- Pretty Little Thing | Lauren wears: Dress- (similar) Missguided

Anybody who is considering a night out in Bath has to go to Komedia on a Saturday night. Cheap drankz? Check. Busy atmosphere but not squashed like a sardine? Check. Motown music that makes you dance all night? CHECK. We had so much fun and I loved having my little gang down. I’ve attached clothing links to most the stuff we were wearing- apologies there aren’t any full outfit shots I was too busy suppin’ on gin and juice!- encase something took your fancy. (Off topic but I’m thinking of doing a weekend guide to Bath soon- what are your thoughts? Let me know!)

Consider this post as an apology to you and a verbal warning to myself to get my blogging ass in gear to create lots of new exciting content for you all throughout April! I’ve got a March favourites, outfit posts in the pipeline plus a new review/haul that I hope you will love.

Happy April my Angels and let's hope I get back on track! What have you guys been up to since my somewhat lengthy blogging break?

A x

Stripe It Out

Stripe It Out