3 Cities, 3 looks, 3 Seasons

Finally back from a few weeks of travel and fun with my other half over in Europe. It had been 18 months since returning back to the UK, and has made me realise I really miss being close to friends and family on that side of the world. I really wish I could just ‘pop’ home that bit more. Are any of you guys an expat and feel me? Life is too short, so a Christmas trip is already on the cards back in Cardiff. Possibly a cheeky week in Berlin too but will keep you posted on that!

Over the space of 2 weeks, we visited Rome, Barcelona, London, and my besties wedding in Spoleto. Having grown up in the UK, I knew packing for high summer would be a fail, but on the other hand it meant over packing for mixed seasons. Extra luggage fees and hauling bags unnecessarily is such a pain and will have to figure logistics better next time. Thankfully, the overweight luggage was needed as temperatures were all over the place city to city.

The metallic crisp look in Rome felt feminine romantic, and it’s fair to say the mornings felt more spring like than I had anticipated. Light layers and classic Gucci loafers for walking around the maze of perfectly formed cobbled streets. FYI, the flowers in Rome are so cheap, so couldn’t help treat myself to a bunch or two! For any of you heading to Italy this year, make the most of the Piazza’s, whether it’s for just a coffee break or to appreciate the architecture surrounding you.

Over in Barca, the temperature heated up. Urban vibes and beach lifestyle actually tempted us to pack our bags and move there permanently. The shopping and dining are on point, which meant a city chic look which could be styled more casually for the beach included bare shoulders and stripes. The look was finished off with my favourite Chloe bag and round sunnies.

In London, the rain and humidity were expected, which meant breathable fabrics were a must. Although it felt very sticky, it looked more like an autumn's day with the grey clouds and constant rainfall. This crochet detailed top was perfect for a British summer. Accessory for this look – umbrella. Standard!

I would love to hear your thoughts on my 3 city looks. More importantly, if anyone has tips or have read some great packing posts recently I would love to hear more in the comments section below. Packing for multiple seasons is so tough, I need guidance for future trips!

Shop the look:

J.O.A Button Down Mini Dress: Shopbop

Gucci Horesbit-Detailed Leather Loafers: Net-A-Porter

J.O.A Shirting Dress: Shopbop

Vessie II boots: Senso

Chloe Faye Bag: Net-A-Porter

Scotch & Soda Pleated Colette Pants: Shopbop

Endless Rose Lace Blouse: Shopbop

Round Metal Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Via Shopbop

Photo credit to my love, Chris.

How To Wear Tailoring & Denim

Weekends are a time to kick back, relax and enjoy a good brunch! Despite my Sunday's consisting of lazy mornings and copious amounts of tea, my Mon-Fri wardrobe tends to follow me through to the weekend with one subtle change - denim. 

These last few weeks, I've been investing in "real" denim for the colder months. No more stretchy skinny jeans sorry, this post is dedicated to the denim we all knew back in the 90's. Mom jeans can be quite tricky to master, but they actually suit most shapes and sizes and can work for most women. So how can you style these with your favourite tailored pieces?

1. Keep the tones simple

You want your outfit to match, and mixing the tones can make the look too busy. When I'm styling my denim on weekends, the first thing I think about is the wash of the denim vs the tones in the tailored garment. Warm tones tend to work well with black jeans, and cold tones work better with blue. Today's coat is a buttery beige colour, which I class as a warm tone.

2. Consider your height and heels

I'm only 5ft 3 with a small waist and larger thighs, so finding the right cut of jeans can be quite a challenge. There are ways to elongate yourself and i'm not talking about angles of the camera! Mom jeans look great with this seasons square heel, just like the Senso's I have on in this post. I just make sure I'm adding a pointed toe to draw everything in from the baggy nature on the leg. For taller ladies, a pair of sneakers can work well.

3. Smarten up

There is no right or wrong here, just pick your favourite tailored pieces. Today I have opted for a linen blouse and tailored woolen coat. These are the items you can wear to the office Mon-Fri, but become more relaxed for weekend wear as soon as they are styled with denim. You can always change up the coat for a blazer or add a neck scarf as a chic alternative.

Shop the look:

Rails Charli Button Down Shirt via Shopbop

Ganni Coat via Shopbop
Topshop Mom Jeans

Ray-Ban Wayfares Sunglasses via Net-A-Porter

Senso Georgie I Shoes

Alexander Wang Bag via David Jones

Photo credit to my love, Chris