Lets get going with summer..a few gems from M&S

M&S £29.50

Style Theory: If you follow me on Instagram you will see these items 'in action' on Instagram stories, I really try to try on or at least see, in real life, the items I write about on the blog so I know the clothes/accessories I am choosing are good quality and whether the fit is good (this is why my blogging is rather infrequent and I do not blog every day just for blogging's sake, I would hate to point you in the wrong direction!!) Some things I am not able to try on but make sure I read all about them, find out what the fabric  is like and if there are videos online I watch them..they are amazing I wish every store would do these videos as they really show how the garment moves and whether it will hang well or not. Anyway, I digress, today I had a local meeting them popped into M&S to see their new Spring Summer range that is hitting stores now. To be honest my wardrobe is boring me and it needs a little interest addded to it so I found a few good tops that are reasonable and will add some much needed newness to my uniform of jeans and trainers.

I did notice that M&S have been working on their prices (my work in buying for years means I can see a price re-structure a mile off!) so the clothes are definitely, in general, quite reasonable compared with Topshop etc who seem to be putting their prices up.

Here are a few things I tried on and apologies, there are some screen grabbed snaps from instastories so I am mid talking hence the attractive face..

M&S Pure Cotton Checked Top £29.50

This is a cute top, I love the arm detail and the frill at the base, it hides a tummy perfectly. I would size down one size, above I am wearing a size 10 and I do need a size 8. It is quite a short top, fine on me as I am small but maybe would need to be worn with a vest top underneath if taller.

Stripe Wide Leg Trousers £45

Stripe Wide Leg Trousers £45

These trousers look so much better in real life than on the website. They are a silky material (it is viscose but looks so much better, very luxe) They look really expensive and are a gold and black rather than cream and black. I actually really liked them paired with my red jumper and in the summer would wear them with a red or white boho top and flat tan sandals. They are true to size (I did find them a little tight across my tummy but bareable!) in the photo above I am wearing a size 10 short and at short them are the perfect length (I am 5ft3)

Long Sleeve Yoke Blouse £27.50

Long Sleeve Yoke Blouse £27.50

This top was great for the price although I was sure it was £25.50 in store?! (I may be wrong!) It looks great tucked into jeans and has lovely details. Not a forever top (the quality is not the best) but one to give your wardrobe a little lift..

Indigo Range £35

Cannot find this online and not a great photo but it was a cute blue broderie anglais top - I picked up a 14 by mistake but I think my normal size would be the perfect fit, in store in the Indigo range.

Cotton Broderie Shift Dress £55

Cotton Broderie Shift Dress £55

Loved this dress, it is beautifully cut in at the arms for a flattering look, you would have to wear with a strapless or multiway bra so the straps can't be seen. I sized down to a size 8. I would wear with neutral strappy heels (below) 

Office £60

for day time with these..

Palmairas Sandals £42

These are so comfortable and blend into tanned feet, they are flattering and once you wear them on holiday you will never take them off!

Indigo range £27.50

Indigo range £27.50

A light, easy to wear top, it will look great in the summer with a pair of levis cut off shorts and white supergas, for now toughen up with a camo or khaki jacket, jeans and trainers.

Leather block heel sandals £49.50

How good are these sandals? They are so Isabel Marant for under £50! I didn't see them in my local M&S but am desperate to try them on. Perfect with black dresses or skinny jeans (see below)

Photo via Pinterest

M&S £35

Love these shoes they are so Kylie/SJP with a Halston Heritage style summer dress they will look amazing!

So there is a little round up of my findings today, these can all be seen on my Instagram stories until tomorrow evening (Weds 15th March) There are more exciting clothes hitting the shop floors now so fashion will be getting exciting again!

As always I would love to hear your thoughts and comments, Fran xx 

WIWT - 2 Outfits In 1 Day

Jonin Hooded Top - 15% off with code MLACTIVE

Chinook Mesh Hooded Top - 15% off with code MLACTIVE

Chugi Top - 15% off with code MLACTIVE

Shamal Top - 15% off with code MLACTIVE

Lotus Sports Bra - 15% off with code MLACTIVE

Air Singlet Top - 15% off with code MLACTIVE 

Apex Capri Leggings - 15% off with code MLACTIVE

Capri Leggings In Black - 15% off with code MLACTIVE

Wrap Me ¾ Leggings - 15% off with code MLACTIVE

Morning ladies I'm sharing 2 outfits with you today & whilst I generally only share the 1, Tuesday is a 3 outfit day for me.  Firstly my running stuff at silly o'clock, followed by my normal clothes & then a change at midday back into some more activewear for pilates.

You may recall that I've worked with Coco Bay over the past couple of years & I have to say they're one of my favourite brands for swimwear.  So you can imagine my delight when they recently got in touch to let me know that they've now branched out into activewear too.  You can see their full range here & the good news is they've kindly given me a discount code to share with you for 15% off the entire range - just use code MLACTIVE at checkout.

I've put together my top picks above & I've also taken a few pictures of the set I've been sent by Coco Bay, which has fast become my new pilates outfit.  Super soft & comfy plus there's no chance of any slipping of the leggings, which if you've ever tried pilates on a reformer machine you may know what I mean when I say there's been a few exercises that I've in the past felt older leggings slipping down & not in a good way!  Plus I just love the sheer panelling & hot pink detailing, which transforms what could be a simple grey look.

Lotus Sports Bra - 15% off with code MLACTIVE

Chugi Top - 15% off with code MLACTIVE

Apex Capri Leggings - 15% off with code MLACTIVE

Back to today & for my main look I'm going for an all blue look & bringing out some sales bargain J Crew jeans to play & teaming them with my statement tweed jacket, which appears to have already sold out!  Although if you're looking for something similar the one I've featured below is a fab alternative.

Jacket - J Crew

T-Shirt - J Crew

Jeans - J Crew

Trainers - Golden Goose

Jacket - L K Bennett

T-Shirt - Hush

Jeans - AG

Trainers - Hush

Don't forget to take a peek over at Coco Bay's new activewear here if you do get 'clicking that button' remember to use code MLACTIVE at checkout for your 15% off.

Right I must get on & whatever you're up to enjoy your day & I'll see you in the morning.

Donna Aida Event - The Pieces I Have my Eye on..

Style Theory: I am so excited to be hosting a VIP styling event with Chloe (ChloeLoves to Shop) at one of my favourite London Boutiques Donna Ida in Chelsea. Chloe and I would love for you to join us on 16th March from 6pm until 9pm for a browse and a glass of bubbles.

Donna Ida has the best collection of branded and own brand jeans, stunning Bella Freud Sweaters and fab own brand blouses.. The good news is you get £50 off all purchase over £200 on the day (in store only I am afraid) ..That Bella Freud sweater you have had your eye on may not be so eye-wateringly expensive!!!

Chloe and I will be on hand to give style advice and maybe help you find that perfect pair of jeans, or just have a good old gossip with you!!

I have picked a few of my favourite items from Donna Ida below..but there is so so much more..

Bella Freud £280

This will look gorgeous in the summer with pale blue ankle length jeans and white trainers or strappy tan sandals.

Bella Freud Cashmere Jumper £380

Pure luxury, this cashmere jumper will go with everything from jeans to glittery sequin skirts and heels.

Maison Labiche Banana Tee £44

I am a huge fan of Maison Labiche tees, the quality is amazing, they are soft but a decent thickness and are super flattering on. Love a breton stripe this would be a fabulous addition to a summer wardrobe.

Donna Ida Miss Maggie Pink Blouse £185

This 100% silk blouse is luxurious and the most fabulous colour against any skin tones. It looks just a good dressed down with dungarees and boyfriend jeans as it does for work with tailored ankle length black trousers and heels.

Donna Ida Bonnie Cashmere Knit £210

Pink cashmere heaven. This will look amazing with blue levis denim shorts in the summer and pale tan flat strappy sandals.

Frame jeans £295

The most perfect boyfriend jeans I have ever tried on. They are super expensive (but if you pop along on the 16th 6-9pm you will get £50 0ff!) they are the perfect colour of washed blue, not too much stretch and super flattering on. Perfect turned up with heels and a blouse, these jeans will be your go to for every evening out. I think I sized down one size in them.

J Brand Selena Jeans £200

My fave brand and cut of jeans ever!! I have these in black and two shades of blue and wear them every day. They are so flattering and comfortable and finish at my ankle so look great with trainers.

J Brand Selena Ascension £275

The same Selena shape but with more of a flare (therefore ankles look alot skinnier!) The pale blue wash is perfect for Summer. Just team with the stripe tee above and a pair of Veja trainers for a cool (and very 2017) summer look.

Ida cropped jean £165

As the sun starts shining I tend to be drawn to the lighter wash of jeans. These cropped, straight jeans are flattering and the higher waist is great for a more flattering look over the tummy area (holds it all in!) The unfinished hem gives these jeans an edgy look but again they will be fab dressed up or down..

Ida Culotte Dungarees now £39

I was looking at these last season now they are reduced to £39 and are perfect for the summer with a pretty summer blouse and tan sandals or white supergas.

Ida Mixed Signals top £150

I bought a similar top to this last season from Donna Ida and it had been my going out top almost every time I have been out, I love it, it is so easy to wear and looks fab with jeans or side striped trousers..

So there is just a small taster, there are so many more gorgeous items in the boutique and we will find you the perfect pair of jeans, that fit flatter and look cool, Donna Ida is the jean queen after all!

We would love you and your friends to join us this Thursday, 16th March, Donna Ida, 106 Draycott Avenue, SW3 3AE 6 - 9pm for a glass of bubbles and a chat!!

See you there, Fran xxx

Baukjen Top Picks + A Discount Code + WIWT - Keeping It Simple

Morning ladies it's discount time again over at Baukjen with 15% off plus free delivery on all orders over £59, just click here & use code CHIC217 at checkout.  So today seemed like the perfect time to share with you my top picks for the coming season.

As with other brands that I favour such as J Crew, Baukjen really do offer timeless classics that are not only made to a high standard but have the edge on other brands for garments that are going to stand the test of time & last you a lifetime.  Not only are they wardrobe staples, you'll find them to be pieces that can so easily be dressed up or down, offering you great flexibility in terms of cost per wear plus there's some great ideas for work staples too.

I've put together my picks from their latest drop above & as always just click on an individual item for further details.  You won't be surprised to hear that I could easily click the button on everything but I'm extremely tempted by this, this & these.

Back to today & it's a quiet & lazy kind of Sunday, which calls for a nice & simple sweatshirt & jeans combo.  With perhaps the odd sip of bubbles to go with the slogan.  Well it would be rude not to surely?! ;-)

Sweatshirt - Wildfox

Jeans - Zara

Trainers - Golden Goose

Sweatshirt - Mango

Jeans - Marks & Spencer

Trainers - Golden Goose,  more purse friendly option here

So ladies what are your thoughts on Baukjen?  Are you a fan & loving their collection for Spring/Summer?  If so I'd love to know what's caught your eye & got you itching to 'click that button'.  In the meantime don't forget their 15% off plus free delivery lasts until the 31st of March - just click here & don't forget to use code CHIC217.

Back as always in the morning.  Enjoy your Sunday.

Mother's Day Inspiration + A Sneaky Purchase + WIWT - Tailored Classics

Morning ladies & happy Saturday :-)  Before I share what I'm wearing today I thought seeing as Mother's Day is only 2 weeks away I'd put together some gift inspiration, which will hopefully help for anyone struggling on deciding what to buy their mother's & also something you can perhaps point your other half to if they're needing a nudge in the right direction ;-)  Hubby if you're reading feel free to click away ;-)

Also I wanted to let you know about this stunning embroidered one shoulder top that I 'clicked the button' on earlier in the week & have just taken delivery of - love, love, love.  I can't wait for the weather to warm up enough to wear this beauty it really is stunning & such a good price :-)

One Shoulder Cutwork & Embroidery Cotton Top

Back to today & my outfit is based around a few tailored classics.

Blazer - J Crew

Shirt - Baukjen

Scarf - Mercy Delta

Bag - Chloe

Trousers - J Crew

Shoes - Boden

Blazer - J Crew

Shirt - Baukjen

Scarf - Marks & Spencer

Bag - Aldo

Trousers - Joules

Shoes - Marks & Spencer

I've not regretted for one second investing in this J Crew blazer - such a great quality, cut & fit it really is timeless.  Plus the gold coloured buttons really do lift it & add that extra element of interest.

Anyone up to anything special today?  Just a normal Saturday for us but I'm looking forward to us all just being home & enjoying some quality family time.

Whatever you're up to enjoy your day & as always I'll see you tomorrow.

WIWT - Styling A Midi Skirt

Biker Jacket - Zara

Polo Neck Jumper - Marks & Spencer

Skirt - New Look

Boots - Ash

Biker Jacket - Mango

Polo Neck Jumper - Marks & Spencer

Skirt - Topshop

Boots - Ash

Ooh you've got to love that Friday feeling haven't you?!

Another day of doing for me & clearing the decks before the start of the weekend so it's a simple midi, jumper & biker jacket combo for today's look.

I don't know about you but I'm looking forward to a chilled glass of something tonight.

Happy Friday ladies, enjoy your day & as always I'll be back in the morning.

20% Off At French Connection + My Top Picks + WIWT - Knitwear, Lace & Denim

Morning ladies & happy Thursday :-)  There's so many discount codes around at the moment that I thought I'd share with you my top picks from French Connection today as with 20% off it's not a discount to be sniffed at & they have some stunning pieces for the coming season.

As always just click on the individual images for further details & use the arrows to scroll through & most importantly don't forget to use code MARCH20 to grab your discount.

I've also got a couple of fab bretons to share with you, which are a cross between a breton & sweatshirt in terms of thickness  with ¾ sleeves, which I received in the post yesterday.  I have to say I'm not only amazed at the price (get both for just £25!) but the quality is brilliant.  Sizing starts from a 10 but if like me you prefer a slightly loose feel to your tops then even for a size 8 these fit perfectly & I'd highly recommend them.

Navy & White Stripe Sweat Top

Red & White Stripe Sweat Top

Back to today & it's another outing for my grey knitted jacket & this time I'm teaming it with blue turn up jeans & a simple lace cami.

Jacket - J Crew

Camisole - The White Company

Jeans - Zara

Ballet Pumps - French Sole

Jacket - J Crew or similar here

Camisole - Ted Baker

Jeans - Hush

Ballet Pumps - Mint Velvet

Have a fab day & if you get chance don't forget to take a peek at French Connection (see here) & if you do 'click that button' remember to enter code MARCH20.  Plus The White Company have also launched their up to 40% off mid season sale (see here) & use code C101A at checkout.

Happy shopping ladies & as always & I'll see you in the morning.