Standing Tall

Blue Seahorse Tunic

My last post championed the unspoken hero hue of yellow and I guess if this post had a shinning grace it would be blue. 

My likeness for blue is not something I have only just discovered. I have always had an attraction for the colour for as long as I can remember. If your a regular reader of Give Me More you may be able to think back to my trend posts on the electric, bold version. 

Lately I have fancied the softer, dusty and pastoral variants that give a more delicate touch to an outfit. But for this look, made up of a Primark white colourless, Scolloped edged jacket (well done Primark), a light blue Sugarhill Boutique seahorse patterned shift dress* and royal blue New Look heels, I wanted to see what pairing the two types of blue looked like against one another.

I thought it may have gone horribly wrong but somehow the clash makes for an interesting look, which is balanced nicely with the no-frills jacket. So far, my wardrobe is becoming ever the more colourful and now I am starting to become braver with mixing and matching too. I'm not sure what it is either. There must be something in the air...

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Neon Glamorous Workwear // M&S Collaboration

Photographer: Georgina Martin // Stylist: Myself // *Dress & Bag: Marks & Spencer

I was extremely lucky to be contacted by M&S and asked to choose some pieces from their latest collections in honour of some specific trends. Of course I was more than happy to comply and decided to coincide the look with workwear as I will be joining the marketing team at Liz Earle in London very soon! With that in mind I knew I had to pick pieces which would stand out of my wardrobe and make a great first impression. 

There were many trends of the season to choose to emulate from floral, abstract prints to one of my current favourites white-out. But as someone who struggles with wearing colour I wanted to catapult out of my comfort zone and tap into the neon/colour-block trend. I chose this beautiful Neon yellow A-line pleated skater dress as I loved its simple yet impacting design. I especially like the small details such as the angular deep set neck line around the armholes. It looks and feels structured without compromising on femininity and comfort also the length means it can be worn with peace of mind. To give it a more casual twist I paired it with a thin brown plaited belt which also emphasises the cinched in waist that this dress delivers. 

I also chose the Grey Winged Tote Bag to go against the dress and like how it's soft and light hue contrasts against the bright and bold yellow of the skater dress. As this was a look which could easily be transferable from the office to the evening I opted to add some small heeled sandals into the mix which I feel really sets off a summer vibe. It would look equally as cute with flat loafers for the day or could be updated for a night out with stilettos and a statement necklace. Making this a very versatile little dress. As for the bag well since this photo-shoot it hasn't left my side and goes with every outfit I've worn, proving to be a roomy, practical yet stylish piece of arm candy. Perfect for life in the capital.

With special thanks to Georgina for taking these snaps and adding some serious quality content to my blog and as I model for a friend's brand too there will be more of Georgina's photography of me to be sported on Give Me More very soon! Life is going to be changing massively due to the move South and you can look forward to more lifestyle posts about my journey and experience. So, make sure to keep checking in :)

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Handy Tips, Handed Down

   
Today I have a different sort of blog post for you which I hope you enjoy as much as I enjoyed making! I collaborated with Crabtree & Evelyn in honour of their new campaign ‘Handy Tips, Handed Down’ built around the sharing of beauty, lifestyle, health and wellbeing tips that have been handed down from generation to generation. And it is a campaign idea stemmed from the 1973 brand award-winning hand therapy cream, which have been used by women of all ages for many years’. 

The hints and advice could be about anything from your Sister's secret recipe for flawless skin to an organic hair treatment passed down from your Grandmother…. they want it all! I think it is such a nice philosophy to take a step back and think about the origins of your tastes and behaviour within beauty - and in such a warm and positive light.

Beauty doesn't have to about solidarity. It can be enhanced by the knowledge of our friends and family. It may be a small handed down tip but every time you do it, it will remind you of the person that gifted it to you. Beauty should be more than just being sat in front of a mirror, ultimately it is an experience. So, in respect of that I am joined by my lovely and willing Aunt and Nanan to lift the lid on our tips in this special video.

We talk inspiration, those fundamental basics you may take for granted, D.I.Y suggestions and many more. Now I have this video to look back on in the near future and maybe even pass down to my own children one day! So, let us plant the seed for sharing and gift each other with the beauty tricks that we can spread for generations to come. 

As part of the Handy Tips, Handed Down campaign the brand is also encouraging customers to share their handed down beauty tips to receive £5 off any £15 purchase as well as the opportunity to win a photo shoot with Venture Family Photography Experience worth £600. Just go instore and share your advice to one of the tip trees or head to their website to join in with the conversation there! Don’t forget to hashtag #Crabtreehandytips.

I just want to wrap things up by saying that Lisa, my Nan and I feel really passionate about sharing such simple advice to other women of all ages and feel that all girls should have the opportunity to master the art of beauty and wellbeing to carry throughout all their adult years’. But it is really important to love yourself in your natural form and remember that as much as beauty tricks are about disguising problem areas they are more about enhancing your best bits.

So, for now I just want to say a big thank you to my family for agreeing to feature on this video with me and sharing their knowledge too. It has been a pleasure and I just want them to know that I appreciate all the lessons inside the realms of beauty and beyond that they have taught me along the way.

Crabtree&Evelyn Website // Crabtree&Evelyn HandyTips // Crabtree & Evelyn Facebook // Twitter

*Sponsored post

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Straight Up Glad Rags

I am a gal who loves her stripes and you know what they say; a zebra never changes their stripes and all that... so I guess it will be a lifelong lover affair after all. If you aren't so enamored by the line print then this might not be your thang because this my darlings is stripes on steroids. But for me it is a whole lot of dress to love. 

It is the Jenny Dress* from jones + jones - a brand you may have come across within the likes of Topshop - that has given my wardrobe a princess touch. With its net-trimmed petticoat skirt signature to the feminine label and cinched in waist it doesn't hold back in the fun and flirty arena. As someone who doesn't shy away from girly indulgences I feel I can embrace its modern-vintage silhouette and pattern but for those who prefer their garments with less drama the brand have many other frocks to get you fixed. I fell for numerous pieces, including the Ella Playsuit which I think I'd give my left arm for - not literally but you get the meaning.

But fancies aside this is a company with values I respect. jones + jones is proud to support British manufacturing by designing and producing all our products right here in the UK and they also make great efforts to source all their fabrics here too. I adore how they keep things small and local within their team based in London, putting their heritage birth land first with a boutique in the Spitalfields market. So, If you need a pick-me-up piece with a distinct difference then jones + jones will hook you up!

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All Things Bright and Beautiful

One the perks about blogging is that every now and then you get kind people out in the industry taking note of your slice of the internet and offering you products to review. It would be rude not to right? But I don't collaborate with everyone and always try to make sure whoever is contacting me offers something I love and think my readers would too. So, when the opportunity arouse to pick a timepiece from the new Citizen Drive collection I jumped to it. 

If you are a dedicated Give Me More follower you will know that the only watch I own is my trusty and much loved Michael Kors rose gold number gifted to me by my boyfriend. I was never a watch person before that moment but from then on it seemed to rarely leave my wrist. I think watches are really having their moment and for good reason - designs are better than ever and they somehow inject a look with the cool factor. That's right, I used the word cool. It may be a phase coined in our adolescent youth but I'm bringing it back in this instance. I just can't think of a better description! In-line with my MC piece I wanted to select something from the Citizen line which held a similar chunky aesthetic but in a lighter metal. Which led me to opting for this rather gorgeous AML Citizen Eco-Drive watch in silver and rose gold. And another cool thing about this make is that it doesn't require batteries, it powers using sunlight. 

When it arrived at my address I instantly fell for its classy yet androgynous look - even Tim was eyeing it up. When styling I thought it was enhanced stacked alongside other arm candy, like this Pandora charm bracelet and Kurt Geiger bracelet as their cream and nudey shades married perfectly with the dual neutral hues of this timepiece. Then feeling colourful I went for this lively yet casual Basic V neck top from Tobi with my awesome H&M Low Skinny Ankle Jeans (as a no jean kinda gal these have changed my outlook). Completed with my almost matching Other Stories Neon Pouch and Dorothy Perkins heeled sandals. Overall, a really wearable outfit ideal for these sun-filled days of late here in the UK. Let's hope things stay sunny, it is giving me reenergised inspiration for styling! What do you think of the Citizen watches? Which one would you have chosen?

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Style Station

If you watched my latest haul video you will have already previewed these delightful pieces from Persunmall. You can take a look at the video here if you haven't seen it yet. Taking advantage of their blogger programme I selected some key spring items this month to add colour and lightness to my wardrobe. I went for this Black Half Sleeves Chiffon Dress which also comes in blue for its modern take on the LBD. It has cut out sleeves and a cinched in waist that feels effortlessly chic. Its simplicity screams for some accessories so I choose to pair it with a statement necklace and bold berry lip. Feeling favourable to yellow lately down to all the daffodils I also got this Chiffon Vest in Yellow which looks great with jeans and skirts. I tend to buy dresses over tops so I needed some basic tees and vests to take me through the warmer months and help me utilise my wardrobe. I also got a beautiful lavender coloured Boat Neck Puff Sleeves Dress but it is unfortunately too short at the back to wear as a dress! I could potentially wear it with thick leggings or tights but I've also considered making it into a top... we shall see how that goes. Last but by no means least is my favourite piece, the white Lace Hem Mini Skirt which is pretty mini. You can't actually see anything but it cuts things fine. My bottom is just retaining its modesty. I just adore the textured fabric and sheer panel hem detailing at the edge. Its high-waist fit is very flattering and with it being a lovely bright white it instantly makes an outfit look summery. That's the lot and all round I'm a pretty happy bunny. 

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Holiday Happiness in a Bottle

As far as I know I'm not going away this year. Which sucks because I crave sunshine on my skin and sand between my toes more with each day. When I want to educe holiday dreams to mentally transport me to the tropics I sometimes rub sun protection under my nose before bed. Yep, for real. So, when Boozi contacted me wanting to see if I fancied trying some of their holiday cocktail inspired lotions and potions I couldn't resist. Somehow the guys knew of my absolute love for coconut (Malibu is still my favourite drink) and sent over their Creamy Coconut Daiquiri Body Cream and Pina Colada Hand Wash. And they are a dream.

Apart from making me crave real alcoholic cocktails which could be rather dangerous but tasty these beauties are happiness in a bottle. Literally I felt happier after using them. Like that holiday feeling was unleashed alongside its amazing scents. The stand-out wow product is the lotion which has a potent kick of a Caribbean beach. For coconut lovers it is a gift that just keeps on giving. The fragrance lingers on your skin all day which you may have to inform to others when they give your funny looks from sniffing your arms continuously. The formula is surprisingly light and sinks into the skin quickly without leaving any unwanted sticky residue. 

The hand wash is a summery treat for your hands and has a lemony twist which leaves a zingy aroma behind. The touch of pineapple and coconut conjures up more images of drinks by the poolside which is a pleasant alternative to the normally boring fresh scents of hand washes. This is a fun and youthful way to bring the holiday to home and the sunshine indoors. 

These novelty bodycare products don't just come in coconut flavours, oh no. The cocktail cupboard at Boozi is full of everything from the decadent Champagne Bellini to the sophisticated French Martini. It really is enough to make your mouth water. They come in the forms of creams, washes, spitzers, bath foams and lip butters. Better still they all come with affordable price tags too. So, if you know of anyone with a birthday coming up make sure to check out their intoxicating range here. Now, where do I keep the rum?

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Dusty Blue and Gleaming Gold

TrendTwo are a new online retailer and as with any new cool thing they need some help getting the word out. So, the guys over at TrendTwo HQ got their stylists to hand select some samples for me to try out. How do you think they did? I am going through a love of blue at the moment so this modern shirt certainly came up trumps in the colour department. As an oversized shirt with split sleeves I found it hard to style myself. It looked too slouchy just with jeans so I thought either wrapping a belt around the waist or tucking it into a skirt looked best. Also, it was completely coincidental but the shirt matched my nails too! Which are painted with Seventeen Gel Nail Polish in Azure Amore. 

The other item they sent was this chunky gold necklace which I thought was another difficult to style piece. I found its size hard to rock but when partly hidden under this black Topshop shirt it just shows the right amount of bling. I like how plain and simple it is whilst still giving impact to a look. There is 15% off for new customers right now and for me the jewellery are their stand-out pieces. I have chosen some best bits above to help navigate you through the stock and if you like what you see click the links below to shop!

Yellow cardigan / Black crochet skirt / Blue stone studs / Gold rings / Geometric black and gold earrings / Emerald green gem necklace / Colourful earrings / Basic white shirt / Large tan bag

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Cosy, Casual and Chic all in one

What I am Wearing

House of Harlow Tortoise Sunglasses, *Persun Irregular Hem Elastic Waist Dress, Topshop large waist belt, H&M sandals, Michael Kors Watch, Random Red purse used as a clutch.

Persun Wishlist

Jeans in light blue, Grey modal tee, Half sleeve chiffon dresses in Black and Blue, Lime green skater dress, Boat beck blue shift dress, High waist skirts in Yellow and Purple, Chiffon vest in Yellow

As a lady who doesn't live by the rule of buying for comfort when wearing a cosy item it feels actually quite liberating. Of course over the wintry months it was all knitted jumpers and over-sized coats but don't be fooled, I had to team things with high-waisted skits or tight fitting trousers to keep things on style form. But it doesn't always result in the most comfiest of looks. But this 100% cotton dress from Persun has comfort and style in spades. Okay, may be the belt stops it from being as easy to wear as it would be but the medium size came up a bit large on me so it needs it. So, if you go for this dress and are a UK 8/10 I would advise a size small if you'd prefer to work it without the need for a waist accessory. But going back to the positive attributes this dress has. The upper part is like a tee with its large sleeves and plain aesthetic but the wrap skirt part of the dress gives what would be an urban / sporty attire, a feminine edge. Something I always look for in clothing. I worked it with open flats, a bold nail colour and clutch to add some much needed brightness to the outfit. You could do this with a slouchy statement handbag or neon belt. Or luxe up the sportiness with trainers and bomber jacket. Do you always search for comfy clothing or is it not a major factor in your purchasing habits?

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Darker Locks and Persun Prints

I was in desperate need of dyeing my hair and in such times I head to the colourants aisle in Boots. Dyeing my own hair is something I have been doing off and on for years' now. Has it ever gone terribly wrong? Yes, yes it has. But has that stopped me? No. When it has gone right throughout the years' I have been black and I have been light brown, I have had dip dyed tresses and even deep red. But right now I opt for warm dark brunette with subtle highlights. 

About the Hair

I am always overwhelmed by the choices of colour on offer and it takes me (quote boyfriend) 'annoyingly' about half an hour to make a decision. This time around I went for Nice'n'Easy by Clairol. After tweeting the first box dubbed 'Natural Dark Caramel Brown' I was informed how harsh such a brand is to use on your hair. I was a little scared about this revelation but as someone who hates wasting their money I committed anyhow. I didn't want my hair to turn out too dark so decided to mix in with another box called 'Natural Medium Golden Brown'. Mixing different shades is something hairdressers do all the time so doing the same at home is fine too! Just make sure you stay in the same colour zone (no mixing blonde with black) and that the formulas are the same (don't mix a foam with a mask). The highlights were done by my Brother's Partner who is a hairdresser. They are only slight but definitely add movement and dimension to the colour. 

About the Look

So, enough about the hair (let's face it, it isn't a miraculous change) and now on to my outfit. I can't believe how bold and colourful I have gone here. Normally I clutch to my dark colour palette like a baby with their dummy but in awe of Spring I decided to drop the comfort blanket and step into the unknown. This is probably the first time I have done (nearly) head-to-toe colour. What inspired it? This absolutely stunning *geometric graffiti chiffon shirt by Persun. I got it in a size medium as they warn customers about their small sizes when ordering and I think it fits pretty perfectly. There are so many ways you could wear this shirt and I have been loving experimenting. Apart from tucking into skirts like this blue number from Other Stories I have been teaming it with skinnies and a blazer with the buttons done all the way to the top. So I am sure you will be seeing a lot more of me in this item. I have another piece from Persun that I will be unveiling tomorrow so watch out for that! So, thank you Persun for gifting me such a beautiful Spring-ready garment! And don't ask about those shoes because they demand an entire post dedicated to their greatness. Do you ditch black for colour in Spring?

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The S/S Fashion Checklist

I am so excited for Spring next month but it isn't only due to the chocolate eggs. Little by little I have been building my Spring/Summer wardrobe with classic staples and some seasonal trend items thrown in for good measure. I think the high street have done a great job translating beautiful designer catwalk fashions from London Fashion Weekend into affordable and accessible clothing for all. So, here is my S/S checklist edit of pieces I have been collecting in anticipation of Easter.

The Bright Sweater

The weather in Sheffield has gone from freak heat wave back to drizzle overcast and for Britain these extreme shifts are a common thing all year through. So, despite Spring approaching jumpers and knitwear are still pieces high on my agenda. But printed and colourful sweaters are giving the normally neutral, wintry garment a sunny lift. Topshop have this sweater available in a few shades including lime green, dusty blue and the colour I chose, coral red. This is a lightweight but warm way to inject a pop of colour into a look that can be teamed effortlessly with jeans or a pretty skirt. If I could I’d be hauling one in every hue but at £24 that would soon accumulate!

Skirts all-round

We now have the peplum skirt but frankly skirt in every variety is the biggest wardrobe must have for S/S. The infamous basic is now the centre of attention for outfits, with more and more experimentation and creativity being played out. The pencil skirt was the IT item for A/W 2013 and that means the mini skirt is one of the key ways to rock this season. Opposites are what fashion is all about. So far I have a pencil, midi, high low (longer at the back than the front), a grey, a black, a colourful and a patterned skirt. So, I pretty much have every area ticked but not quite. My all-time favourite timeless tight mini skirt from Topshop has broke meaning I need a close-fitting piece to replace it. So far I have been loving a couple of mini skirts from George, especially the textured side-zip number at a cool £12. So, may be I won’t have to wait long to complete my skirt collection.

The White Crop Jacket

For equal reasons to the first Spring checklist piece this next one is down to weather. But I think layering and having a jacket is something appropriate for wherever you live in the world. The difference will be its fabric. My white crop jacket is a thick and durable cotton material which means I keep my arms from getting goose pimples whilst still looking Spring-like. I have a thing for biker jackets and this one delivers on such an infatuation with its leather jacket silhouette and zippers. But if you prefer you could opt for a more sheer and silky white crop jacket to wear over string tops for instance, as a way of layering without getting over heated. And if you want some serious style points don’t forget to add a patterned cropped jacket in to the mix.

 Royal Blue and Midi-Skirts

Blue, blue and more blue. The fashion week shows were a wash of the royal hue adding a contemporary twist to the normal pastoral colour wheel of Spring fashion. Dusty and pretty pastels were aplenty but it was the highly pigmented and bold blue that every designer seemed to be incorporating into their collections. Thankfully, as a lover of this shade I have been clocking up a few beautiful blue clothing already. This blue crop top from Topshop is a casual and on-trend way to work the intense shade. Teamed with a midi-skirt, albeit not a colourful one and this is one look fulfilling several trends.

So, that is my breakdown of pieces to work into your existing wardrobes in order to be Spring/Summer ready. Of course, there are plenty more. I am yet to find a yellow shift dress as yellow and lime green are other vibrant shades making up this season’s palette. But what fun would there be without the chase? What is your favourite Spring checklist piece for this season?

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Persun S/S Wishlist

Pure Color Frilly Dress, Irregular Hem Elastic Waist Dress, Embroidered Elbow Patch Striped Sweater, Retro Color Mixed Drawstring Chiffon Dress, Moonbasa Pencil Skirt with Ruffle in Black and Nude, Elastic Waist Black Harem Pants, Geometric Graffiti Chiffon Shirt, Retro Embossing Zippered Clutch, Classic Black and White Flat

I've partnered with Persun to bring monthly fashion reviews to Give Me More from their latest collections so to start off I'd like to introduce the Chinese retailer label and my pick of their extensive stock. The international company has been working closely with bloggers for some time now but whether you want to join their affiliate programme, review programme or just take advantage of their discounts now is the time to check them out! They have a real mix of fantastic prints, known especially for their shirts and blouses, but also some great basics too. If you are drawn to colour your going to fall for their bright patterned numbers, which there are plenty. But personally, I have been drawn to their more subtle palettes and staple pieces with a few summery trend garments thrown in there too. This miniature Persun capsule wardrobe works on many levels, for day and night. I wonder which ones I'll pick... Which are your highlights from my edit? And have you heard of Persun before? 

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Mint Knitwear and Embellished Shoulders

 Fashion Union

In a time of fashion indecisiveness you can always rely on the humble knit. Pair a jumper with jeans or skinnies and feel instantly comfortable and effortless about your look all day. Although the classic jumper never goes out of style what you can do is give it a seasonal overhaul to make it on trend. This gifted Fashion Union knitted jumper makes for a slam dunk in that arena as this single piece ticks off two trends. The mint green shade tackles the pastoral colours of this years' S/S collections and the sequinned shoulders fulfils our love for embellishment. For when the days are cold a bright or printed jumper gives a nod to the season whilst keeping our bodies toasty. I paired this item with matching minty nails and black trousers for an easy-to-work daytime look. This looks equally great with a pair of shorts or a floaty skirt so I'm going to enjoy experimenting with this Spring wardrobe staple. How do you give your jumpers a seasonal update? Also, man do I need to sort those roots out!

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Sunshine, Sunnies and Sweet Dresses

Poppy Lux

Let us just rejoice in the sunny weather of the past couple of days in the UK. I forgot how glorious it is to feel heat on your skin and see blue skies above you! A bit of vitamin D and sunshine and suddenly everyone is happier. I made the most of it by heading to a park to lounge and sat outside for lunch. It was almost like being on holiday. I saw my family and spent time enjoying their company in the sun. But sadly as I look out my window now all I see is grey and cold. Damn. 

But here I was yesterday wearing this cute little pattered skater dress thanks to Poppy Lux. It comes with cap lsleeves and a cinched in waist but as the temperature dropped slightly I chucked on this light blazer from River Island to warm up the look. If you'd rather grunge up such a pretty dress then a leather jacket would add that rock chic edge. Ankle boots stop this outfit from being too girly and if the weather would allow some tanned legs would make this dress sing! As a fuss free additional I choose to wrap my hair up in a messy bun and left my side bangs loose. As I was totally unprepared for the nice weather I borrowed these sunglasses but normally I go for frames much bigger. Can't wait for the sun to pop its head out again so I can whack those out. Head to Poppy Lux for some perfect S/S peices with a rather affordable pricetag too!

Did you do anything nice in England during the weekend? And How would you wear this lovely number?

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Wardrobe Essentials: Every Woman Should Own

Like great make-up, great style starts with the foundations. No matter your style, age, size or height there are key pieces which every woman should have hanging in their wardrobe. Whether you invest in such key items from designer brands or chose budget favourites, having these fashion saviours close to hand will help you out time and time again. Allowing for ultimate versatility and diversion throughout your entire clothes collection by mixing and matching these core staples with your more fashion led garments. So, want to know what I think such style building blocks are? Read on and see if you agree and have the same key purchases! Oh, and this post also doubles up as a shopping haul as they are all very recent buys!

THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS

The classic LBD has been gracing our pavements and helping us feel sophisticated without the effort since Chanel made the mourning hue fashion worthy. It goes without saying how accessible and essential such an item is to a woman's wardrobe. I love them so much, I don't just have one, or two, or three but several... the little black dress has saved me many times from can't decide what to wear days and they are so easy to glam up for the evening too! Getting the cut and shape is where the element of individuality comes into play. This ROMWE dress shakes things up with cute peterpan detailing and a mix of fabrics. If money is no object head to places like Riess for structured shifts but if you are looking after the pennies a dress from George would make a great alternative. I personally think their sheer panel dress makes for a lovely and much more universally wearable adaptation of my ROMWE number.

THE BLAZER

Ah, the infamous blazer. Gone are the days were this garment signified androgyny for women. Now it is synonymous with being a strong, independent woman making their own mark in the world. This is the go-to piece to give a touch of smartness and structure to a look. Ideal for an interview or work but now a firm modern favourite too by pairing with jeans and a simple tee for fuss free chicness. Make sure you have one in black or navy and then feel free to add in print and bold arrays. But for me I like to opt for one that is slightly fitted for a feminine look. My new addition is this piece from H&M with a subtle clasp central fastening. Perfect.

THE EVERYDAY BOTTOMS

If you ever own just two bottoms in your life, they should be a well-fitting pair of jeans and some thick leggings/treggings. Some years back the latter would have been replaced with trousers but oh no, now leggings which are thick enough to be worn as trousers aka treggings have taken centre stage. Both these style warriors work by knowing what to pair them with. My mum is a key example of how to work treggings in your 50's by teaming them with knee high flat patent black boots and a long oversized shirt. The whole thing keeps the derrière covered for peace of mind but looks really contemporary.  Jeans, well it is all about the cut. Whether you choose skinnies, straights, bootcuts or flares it is down to your personal style and shape. Remember that high waistlines can really accentuate your figure - the cut and shape I love the most. These recently purchased black treggings from Topshop look great with bright jumpers and floaty shirts. Cue my next essential...

THE WHITE SHIRT

I cheated here a little because this shirt from H&M isn't quite white. In fact it is more nude or a dusky pink but nevertheless it is light and works in representing the staple which is the white shirt. I am still hunting down my ultimate white shirt as I feel it a crucial piece which works for any skin tone and is perfect for pretty much any occasion. Given the right accessories of course. The white shirt no longer belongs in a man's world, it is very much firmly in a woman's too. But the difference is that whilst the men should opt for a crisp fabric, women should choose more sheer and lightweight textures to keep things feminine and soft. 

THE FOOTWEAR FOURSOME

When it comes to footwear, the colour scheme doesn't stretch that much I'm afraid. By now I am sure you have noticed a running theme of black - excluding the white shirt of course. But black is such a fundamental shade to have in your wardrobe and if I could I’d have every piece I owned also in a plain black version. Because, it just goes with everything, okay except navy but ultimately it is completely dependable. So, when it comes to the footwear foursome I'm thinking a great pair of comfy heels, two pairs of boots, one heeled and one flat (so you have options for both day and night when the weather is cold and wet), and lastly, a pair of pumps (aka flats). All of which should refrain from anything too out there or embellished. Simple is really how to play it as these are the shoes which will tie in with anything you are wearing on top. 

Of course, I could go on all day highlighting other key pieces like trainers, a leather jacket and a pencil skirt but I'm just about all typed out. These however, I think or specifically essential to a woman's wardrobe and I'd love to know whether you agree or have any other suggestions to add to the list! 

*Some areas of this post are intended for promotional purposes

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