Yes, Yes, Yes, It's My Autumn Almanac

I never understand people who book holidays away to sunnier climates during the arrival of Autumn/Winter. I feel like this is the time of the year where we can fully embrace the cold and miserable British weather. So let's welcome it with open arms! Just to let you know, as I'm typing this I'm currently cuddling the radiator - it's got reeet cold hasn't it! There's honestly something so comforting leaving work when the clock strikes five and already, it's pitch black outside. Then heading home to wrap yourself up in ten thousand cosy layers until you can't move, literally. It also instantly gets me proper giddy for Halloween, therefore insisting me that I stay in, huddle up next to the fire with a hot beverage in my hand and watch my favourite scary movie but then realising it was a huge mistake and you'll be left hiding under you bed covers for the next two weeks as you've got it into your head that demons are coming for you... And as soon as that passes, you'll be sat on your knees at your window looking up at the midnight sky waiting for those colourful balls of flames to shoot up because Bonfire Night is the next celebration in line. Yes, you guessed it, another reason to wear EVEN MORE layers and for you to adapt ' Lady Marshmallow' as your nickname! Seriously though, how can anyone dislike this rusty coloured time of the year?

But let's chat seasonal attire! Recently when I've managed to catch my bus for work (I was definitely cursed with the late gene ok...), I've stared out of the windows and have been utterly inspired with all the crisp leaves bundled up on the streets and the rolling Pentland hills in the background. I mean who can't adore those burnt oranges, crimson reds and forest greens? I'm a total sucker for them! Nothing makes this gal happier than wearing nostalgic colours together such as dark mustard and burgandy or dusty pink and navy blue. One item that I've particularly fallen back in luuurve with is this mesmerising Halloween-esque knitted tee from H&M. I'm definitely convinced that a team of zombies (the babein' ones) sat down together and magicked this dreamy number up. Que the sexy voiceover lady on the M&S advert..."This isn't just any old striped jumper but this jumper provides you with a sparkle". I absolutely love anything glittery because it gives me so much nostalgia to when I was a 7 years old kid playing musical chairs at Christmas parties and crying when I was the only one left standing. I can't fault this item at all because not only is it the comfiest but it also goes with absolutely anything. I teamed mine with this wardrobe staple of a skirt from Primark in black cord, 100% a God send if I do say so myself! Overall, I'd say that this is one of my 'I don't know what to wear' kind of outfits but in all, a mish mash of the sixties and seventies - my two favourite era's.

But no that's not me finished with all of you yet, hold dem' god damn horses! To include a bit of extra chic or the cherry to the cake, I paired this look with my black patent leather, heeled ankle boots from Topshop. Each time I wear these babies, I genuinely feel like I go into full on Cat Woman mode which is miaow-vellous! Speaking of patent, it's one of hottest trends of this season at the moment as it adds a little bit more POW to your Autumn/Winter palette. You can't go wrong with black booties. It's yet again another wardrobe essential that I advise all of you girls to invest in. Every wardrobe needs a pair that you can wear day in and day out with dresses and jeans but with so many out there it can be an impossible decision! I usually opt for leather rather than suede because there is nothing worse than getting caught in torrential rain in your new suede numbers - am I right ladies? (it is Scotland after all).

I don't know if it's the fresh cold air but one of my favourite pastimes when the temperature drops, is to chuck on my chunkiest jumper and comfiest shoes, and wander aimlessly. I'm so lucky that I live in Edinburgh because not only is it filled with office buildings, construction work and historic sights, it's also got the luxury of the wild scenery. I appreciate my city a lot but sometimes I just want to escape the noise especially the beeping from cars...(but sssh don't Edinburgh that). Walking through woodland paths and crossing bridges is total zen to me. So on these days when there's a turn in the weather and I'm wandering contently, thinking of absolutely nothing apart from how cute that Border Collie looks in the distant is, I'll have my earphones at the ready to be accompanied by many artists/bands playing in my ear. Here's a little insight into my world - my tailormade soundtrack to being perfectly chilled looks a little something like this:

Best Coast - Baby I'm Crying

Leon Bridges - River

The Hollies - Long Cool Woman In A Black Dress

The Brian Jonestown Massacre - Anenome

George Harrison - My Sweet Lord

She & Him - Black Hole

Carla Thomas - B-A-B-Y (thank you to the Baby Driver soundtrack - you taught me well)

The Byrds - Tambourine Man

The Drums - Book Of Stories

Arctic Monkeys - Baby I'm Yours

Beirut - Postcards From Italy

Belle & Sebastian - The Boy With The Arab Strap

So there you have it lovelies, another style recipe but this time Autumnal inspired. Just let the colours keep rollin' out! Before I love and leave you, I'll link some alternative items down below to the pieces that I'm wearing because sadly they were swiped up by folk! Also, I wish you all the Happiest of Halloweens you wonderfully spook-a-licious lot. I hope you've got your frightful costumes and carving knifes at the ready. Go get your freak on ~plays Missy Elliot~.

Lou x

Similar Versions
Striped T-shirt - Forever 21
Cord Skirt - ASOS
Patent Boots - Topshop

Little White Dress On The Prairie

One thing that I'm all for is wearing any colour, any time of the year. You shouldn't ever feel restricted to only wear vibrant yellows when the sun is out to play or crimson reds when leaves begin to drop from trees. Definitely be that person who breaks those silly fashion rules. I mean what is fashion if you stick by them?! It's ALL about experimenting. So what's wrong with wearing white after Summer you ask? The answer to that is - nothing! White is a great colour to be rocking all year round, so make sure you don't reorganise your wardrobe too much gals. Let's be honest with ourselves, we've all probably loved so many Winter whites for years which is why taking those cooler tones from Summer into the chillier months of the year IS key!

I've recently been wearing all of the cosy knitwear for the past week and a half so it's definitely nice to take a break by chatting you through one of my fave pieces from Joanie Clothing. I'm a massive fan of vintage clothing for several reasons. Firstly, I like walking through the streets of town wearing unique pieces that not 158 other girls will be wearing. Secondly, I like the fact that the clothes had a life before I bought them - I could own a Twiggy piece for all I know - how amazing would that be! Sometimes it's a total mission to find perfect pieces as it's such a popular way nowadays to shop and when you do snatch up gems, there may be repairing involved and that is a whole other ball game. So as you can imagine when I discover any new brand that creates new clothes based on vintage styles, I'll jump with joy. From the first day of discovering Joanie, I was head over heels in love with pretty much every item on their website. From jumpers to dresses, to skirts to t-shirts - I was all over them. They are a brand who scream cute, playful slogans and most importantly, they cater for us nostalgic ladies. Transporting us to eras we never thought we could come close to, possible. Whether you're a fan of Jane Birkin's boyish style, Audrey Hepburn's movie star shades, Patti Smith's sweet modish outfits or Brigitte Bardot's French bombshell style - Joanie have got you covered to swirl your way through the fifties and sixties!

Okay so as I relentlessly add to my basket and go way past over my spending budget, there was no way I was leaving behind this Broderie Anglaise smock dress - nuh uh honey! ~snaps fingers~ People who live in Edinburgh know fine well that it's constantly known for its weather changes nearly every hour, but luckily when we were blessed with the warmth, I just had to throw this beauty on. I can't help but feel that this type of material is the best for running around in a lavender field or sitting underneath a blossom tree with a book - are you getting all of those Lolita-esque vibes because I sure am! It's one of my favourite types of embroidery because it's far more robust and suited to daytime wear and less associated with the fine, lacy look (let's keep that for those nights when you're under a disco ball with rum in your hand though ladies). With a chic high neck, it's buttoned at the keyhole back with a pearl which endlessly screams sophistication. I've also found that recently I'm a total magpie when it comes to all things frills and ruffles - basically clown attire... This dress did NOT disappoint. Just look at those cropped frilled sleeves and yoke! Yes, a frilled YOKE! ~angels sing~ Again, these two main features give off a Georgian styled vibe. I mean who doesn't love to think that their in Downtown Abbey huh?

Seriously, if you haven't ventured onto the Joanie Clothing website then you need to pay them a visit because you're in for a good auld' vintage treat! Also, what's more not to love when you can be apart of their girl gang?! Just make sure you tag your latest Joanie outfit on Instagram with #joaniegal and hey presto you're in baby! So with out further a do could we give them a huge round of applause for creating styles based on the girl next door - you'll NEVER forget her. Just like the girls who won't forget your winning outfit when they walk by you!

If you know my style well, then you know I do like to dress up most days - I'm definitely that 'extra' friend. As seen on runways and street style stars I teamed it with these classic Mary Jane pumps from Topshop which I purchased last year. Every girl needs a classic, go-to pair of pumps in her wardrobe - and that's definitely one rule you need to follow ~winks~ The first time I got giddy over this shoe was when my obsession with the sixties began. Mesmerised by Marianne Faithfull with her swinging mini dresses and tousled hair, she sure did have a fabulous eye for footwear. I rest my case... I'll swoon over any pair of three strap fastening Mary Janes because they're a lil' bit more special than your average one strap shoe and far more versatile. Also, your sass-o-meter will shoot straight up! A total match made in vintage inspired heaven if I do say so myself. But not to forget... I'd also pair this dress with my Converse as they make anything girly a more boyish look which is something I'm a big fan of as I mentioned in my previous post.

For years, I've struggled to discover what my favourite colour actually was. Now I've happily came to the conclusion that red is totally my thang! The colour is so powerful and even the slightest pop of it can really brighten anything. This mini cross body bag from Accessorize was everything that my wardrobe needed and what this look needed. The other day I wore a plain grey knit and black denim jeans (you can tell I was feelin' like a sloth that day...) with the bag, and I received numerous compliments. Odd, right? I didn't even have my classic red lip painted on. Honestly it was the bag. I know it was. Literally a God send! This accessory itself just adds the perfect amount of chicness and personality to the whole look as the dress is 100% crisp white - a be-a-utiful contrast.

Let's rewind back to the real reason why I'm talking to you about this beauty of a dress. We see white all over the catwalks, year after year, no matter what season it is, yes ladies? So like the Spice Girls sang "Stop right there, thank you very much..." - I encourage you to stop what your doing and pick out those whites for Autumn/Winter! Of course it's how you choose to style it. But there are zero rules, remember that. For me, I find that smock dresses can sometimes be difficult to wear with tights, but let's be serious that's most likely down to my height... Saying that, pairing this number with black tights are a perfect match and I promise you, you won't look like a sack of potatoes with a coat piled on top - you'll just be season ready. Not to gush too much about my outfit again but this is a solid Winter white and with long sleeves it just screams, "I'm your numero uńo Winter baby" in your face.

There are a bunch of gorgeous whites for this upcoming season without a crazy price tag so now is your time to grab em' by both hands and run (of course, do pay first...). Happy styling lovelies!

Lou x

Smock dress - Joanie Clothing
Shoes - Topshop
Bag - Accessorize 

Put On Your Midi Skirt and Dance The Blues!

Hello gals, I hope you are all well and YAY to a lazy Sunday full of roast dinners, cozy blankets and ten hundred candles lit. Don't you wish everyday was Sunday? Just, bliss! Today is my first blog post and I would be lying to you to say I wasn't nervous in the slightest... Truth is, I am one big scaredy cat but I guess that is a normal feeling to have when it's post number one.  

If I had a chance to describe my style, I’d say it’s somewhere between your fifties high school student and sixties groupie - I’m basically jumping from era to era. Not every day is the same for me, I’ll go one way or another. Whether that will be a very feminine look or when I’m feeling that tad bit lazy, I’ll opt for indigo washed denim jeans and your classic go-to piece, the stripy tee (yes ladies, you know). What tends to stick with me and which should be tattooed on my face is my obsession with a bold red lip. If you ask anyone who knows me, they'll agree that I can't leave the house without painting it on - I simply just don't feel like myself without it. In my opinion this can make any outfit a winner and as Marilyn Monroe once sang, "Diamonds are a girls best friend", red lipsticks are also your besties in which you can rely on and most importantly, have in your pocket. A normal day outfit for me looks a little something like the below.

Just a little insight into my life, I was never that girl who was at their happiest when wearing anything that was seen as the typical ‘girly girl’… I'd most likely throw a screaming match if I had to wear anything remotely floral, frilly or glittery. It was especially a total nightmare taking me shopping for school party attire even if it was just to dance around to 'Don't Stop Movin' by S Club 7 in a small hall. A tracksuit and a sporty tee was my top combo that I'd happily reach for at the age of twelve years old. Now at the age of twenty, I’m like a kid in a sweet shop. Give me ALL of the dresses! Now! ~inserts the popping heart eye emoji times ten~.

Okay so back to the real talk on the block…

I love Summer. Partly because it’s the season where Edinburgh comes alive, suddenly everywhere is decorated with amazing bunting and there is always that buzz in the air. I love waking up to the sunshine beaming down on your face and if I smell a BBQ, I will definitely be the first one to queue up - seriously. Saying that, dressing for this time of the year isn’t my favourite. I find it requires a little bit more thought as all of a sudden we have so much more flesh on display and if you’re, well, a self conscious gal like myself then it can become a difficult task. Every Summer, I have the same battle with myself - can I pull off the same floral skirt the way other girls can or can I wear denim shorts to festivals like the way other girls do. The answer is obviously YES because nobody is judging my body as much as I think they are, they're probably too busy filming a Boomerang or snapping a photo of the most Instagramable ice-cream.

 But let's briefly talk about my legs. They're probably one of my biggest physical insecurities when they aint' covered up by tights. I don't go to the gym therefore my legs are not toned in the slightest and I'm definitely up there with the palest legs. Not to mention, cellulite - oh that is one biatch that feeds on my negativity. A current memory I have of this Summer is when I put off going to meet my gals in the heat because I had it stuck in my head that they would look 'better' than me and I would be the odd one out with milk bottle legs. I'd be walking through crowds of people in town and my mind would take a turn for the worst. The overall paranoia of strangers laughing at how they looked wasn't healthy. Stupid, isn't it? Even having part of my legs out has always been a big deal for me but up until recently I've became a lil' more confident and I hope to carry that confidence with me, forever. Of course, we all should love our bodies because they are amaaaazing things but each have their beautiful differences. It's just sometimes, it's not that easy to love them and it can take real effort to get to that stage - that's perfectly fine because we are human beings and things take time. I wanted to give our legs a shoutout because they do so much for us, like carrying (bolting in my case...) us to the bus stop in the morning for work. But beside that, they're what we've got and we owe it to ourselves so let's try and embrace them. There is no such thing as the perfect pair of pins - don't let yourself believe such nonsense (something that I constantly remind myself so join me with that!) Sometimes, you just gotta find the courage to whip those tights off and go bare legged. One thing I've definitely learnt is that you can't be cooking up a sticky, uneasy sweat all day long that's for sure! 

For months, I’ve hunted high and low for a suitable midi skirt that I was able to pull off at the height of 5ft but up until recently, this cerise number caught my eye in New Look and I instantly fell in love. Most people would shy away from this vibrancy but as a fan of incorporating colour into outfits and expressing my personality throughout it, I find it’s a great addition and can really jazz your look up even on a dull rainy day. What I really love about this skirt, is the bow detailing around the waist, it pulls you in and therefore creates a flattering silhouette. The shape of the skirt gives the whole look a take on the fifties which as you know is my thang and is perfect for any vintage fashion lover's wardrobe. What more could a girl love than twirling round feeling like Sandy from 'Grease'? The fuller the skirt the better! I personally feel that the skirt itself is a statement enough without going all out on the top half. So for that matter, I paired this with one of the most massive trends at the moment - the slogan t-shirt. 'Let's Dance' is one of my favourite songs to play at a party so it made sense to pick up this high street winner from Mango. I'm almost certain that the majestic Mr. Bowie himself would be full of appreciation and applauds. A total clash of the colours buuuuut electric blue and hot pink were pretty much made for each other! Eek! Never shy away from being that one who stands out from the crowd - follow the footsteps of Bowie.

One of my favourite touches to any outfit is to mix and match. Be feminine, but also add that touch of masculinity. Which is why slipping on your pair of trusty high tops is a perfect way to rock that ‘tomboy’ look at the same time. I wore this outfit watching The Maccabees perform live (yes, I shed a tear when they played 'Toothpaste Kisses' - who wouldn't?) and by God, my feet were comfy. Converse are just a timeless style staple who I've never had a rocky relationship with, which is what everybody looks for with a pair of shoes, right? Plus, they make me feel like thirteen again therefore how could I possibly complain. So there you have it a super duper easy style recipe that anybody can rock.

Lou x 

'Let's Dance' T-shirt - Mango

Midi Skirt - New Look

Converse - Schuh