Said article here......also featuring Frances from School Run Style, Rosanna from Silver Brogues and Laura from My Pollyanna
And here's me in my 'Chic Layering'!
A big thank you to Essential magazine, I was very flattered to be asked to participate!
As I am now throwing myself headlong into getting my CV together and job searching I have had little time to shop or research this week so I am just going to share with you my hit & miss purchases of the week!
The Hit!
I have been hankering after a spotty shirt for a while as you can see from above in the Essentials article so I took the plunge and ordered this silk shirt from Uniqlo and I am happy to report that's it's a no-brainer, complete winner in my book! Love it!
I did a quick try on here
It a moment of madness I ordered 2 pair of the Skater shoes from H&M as I was putting in a kidswear order taking advantage of the 10% and free delivery last week. I ordered the snakeskin and black quilted styles. They arrived and they are lovely as you can see but compared to my beloved Kurt Geiger Laurel's they are ever so slightly differently shaped and for me it is all in the detail so these are going back! I am going to try the Topshop Vamp in black croc.....so I shall report back on my findings!
The Not So Sure About Purchase
Really do not know what to do about this next item. I ordered some chino's from Next which looked lovely in the photo here but in reality don't look this shape on me at all. In the pic they look like a relaxed fit but I found them rather tight around the calf's so they went back. Sorry I didn't take photographic evidence of how bad they looked on me!
So when the Gap 30% voucher dropped into my inbox I decided to see what they had to offer in the way of chino's. They call their version Khaki's.
I'm just not convinced though.....what do you think?
In all likely-hood these will be going back as I'm not 100% sure and I do tend to live by that old adage 'if in doubt don't'! This is probably because there are also a couple of other bits on my radar which I am toying with which I shall share another day!
A quick round-up of my outfits from these past few days when at last we have seen a bit of sunshine! Yay!
H&M sweater
Gap original straight jeans
Kurt Geiger Laurel pumps
Topshop denim shirt
M&S loungewear trews
Kurt Geiger Laurel pumps
Primark Baseball jacket
H&M sweater
Zara Jeggings
Zara hi-tops
Primark baseball jacket (again!)
Gap sweater
Gap jeans
New Balance trainers
Gap sweater
Gap jeans
New Balance trainers
Topshop coat
Zara top
Gap skinny's
New Balance trainers
Marc Jacobs bag
Have you made any hit or miss purchases this week? Taken advantage of any of the fab discounts around at the moment? I am sure to have some more hits and misses to share with you next time! Until next time!
I love reading and responding to your comments!
Hope you are all having a great week!
Michelle xx
Hi Michelle
ReplyDeleteI've only recently started reading your blog - thanks for all the fashion inspiration! I think the chinos look fab on you, great fit, but then I don't know what your criteria is.....and if you have other more pressing purchases.......! I do also agree with your comment, if you're having to think too hard about it, best to walk away.
Hello there, glad to be of service on this inspiration front...thank you for the lovely compliment!
DeleteThe jury is still out on the chino's, I'm going to check out and see if I can find another pair to compare them with! I'll keep looking and keep you posted! :0) xx
Wow you on such a roll with everything, love the magazine feature! Also love the polka dot shirt you're wearing. I have had gap chinos in the past and they are ok but have always preferred Topshop ones. I think they look good on you but if you're not sure, then don't keep them!
ReplyDeleteAbbi x
Hey Abbi! Off I went straight to the Topshop website when I saw your comment.....they don't seem to have any at the moment but I shall keep my eyes peeled! Thank you for the tip off! xx
DeleteLoving your work here Michelle - fab looks. If I'm honest I can't decide about the chino's and I can never decide on me when I wear them. I just 'see' American Mom instead of French Chic .. !
ReplyDeleteGreat point and brilliant comment Fiona.....I so want to be French Chic! I had vision of how I wanted to look and they are not living up to my expectations! You've hit the nail on the head perfectly xx
DeleteWow what a month Michelle - definitely cause of a glass or two of bubbles ;-) I'm not sure on the Gap chinos, perhaps if they were more of a looser fit or if you rolled the hem up a couple of times they may look better?!!!
ReplyDeleteJane xx
www.mymidlifefashion.com
Ahh thank you Jane.....now I just need to bag me a brilliant new job!! I am liking your thinking on the fact the chino's need to be a bit looser! What I need is something the same as the Zara coated ones but in a lighter colour cotton! I sahll keep on searching! xx
DeleteYou're having a magnificent March aren't you Michelle? :o) Well done on being featured on the Essentials magazine and you look gorgeous in it.
ReplyDeleteNow for the chinos - I think you should have gone for the mini skimmer fit which are a little slimmer on the thigh. I love the relaxed fit of the ones you have chosen but I tend to stay away from the looser styles as they do nothing for me much as I love them (very Margaret Howell). The colour of them is fine but the overall outfit is very light so I think a change of shoe might be necessary. Try with some pumps or sandals and the whole outfit will take on a very different vibe. Because the chinos are so light, if you want to wear the Laurels, I would be tempted to pair with your black v neck on top to add extra interest. I love little conundrums like this where you need to figure out what it is you're not sure about with an item.
However, no such problems with the Uniqlo shirt right? You put it on and it's a no brainer right? Like I did with all my shirts from there too - I love it when that happens.
And enjoy your Laurels - they're special. You don't need the other ones :o)
Bless you Sue! My dad didn't do a bad job with the photo did he.....bless him?! Mind you he's no match for Marlene with a camera!! She can sleep easy at night....lol!
DeleteI love your fantastic advice about the chino's, I did clock the mini skimmers on the website! I envisaged wearing these trews with the Laurel's but I don't think the shape or length works with them well. You are right about wearing the darker colour on top too!
I am having a right old Uniqlo love in at the moment....wish we had one around here! Having said that their delivery and service is excellent! The shirt is fabulous, I am so chuffed with it!
My beloved Laurel's.....I'm afraid they will be worn out before the Summer which is why I've been on the hunt for an alternative :0) x
How spooky Michelle...I bought the exact same pair of chinos from Gap the other day (still using the 30% off, lol!!) & I'm not sure about them either...I found the pockets stuck out a bit on me & made my hips look huge!! I need to play around with them a bit more & I've not had time yet. I do agree with Sue about the mini skimmers...I have a khaki green pair of these from last year which I love & fit perfectly! I would maybe try a darker or striped top with them & see how they look?
ReplyDeleteLove the Uniqlo shirt 'tho...great buy! x
Great minds Sian....phew, you know what I mean too! I am definately going to try the mini-skimmers. I am just thinking that maybe these are just the wrong shape for me but I seem to have a hole in my wardrobe for this style of trouser!
DeleteThe shirt is gorgeous isn't it.....first outing tonight to Pizza Express in Southgate!! ;0) xx
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ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
Deletecheck out super skinny khakis in gap i think they are much nicer, size down by 2 sizes though, gap runs very big imo. Love the shirt and your blog btw
ReplyDeleteThank you.....most of my jeans and trews come from Gap so once you find the right size and fit you can't go wrong! Great tip off....I shall try the super skinny khaki's! Glad you like the blog too! x
DeleteHi Michelle!! You've had such a fabulous month so far and the Essentials feature is so cool, I really admire your style when it comes to layering with a sweater and shirt- you always look chic and stylish, the pink sweater with that shirt is spot on. Sues advice on styling the chinos is great, I've a pair of chinos but don't wear them that often as I prefer jeans but it's still nice to have a pair for a change xx
ReplyDeleteHey Sharon, it has been a fantastic month so far, for you too! Should really think about getting the pink sweater out again now that Spring seems to have sprung! The sunny days certainly make me feel a bit braver when it comes to colour!
DeleteFeel I am missing a trick on the chino front as I have nothing like them as an alternative to jeans so I need to fill that Gap! ;0) xx
It is very flattering being asked to do the magazine isn't it - I was in last months page - saw one if my passengers reading it and hopefully she didn't click it was me! I agree with Sue go for the skimmer mini chinos from Gsp they are a more flattering fit..... Loving the dotted shirt.....was only just looking at it on their site. Xx
ReplyDeleteWhilst I was flicking through through the March copy I noticed you in it Annmarie.....well done to you too! It's an honour isn't it?!
DeleteOn the case with the Gap mini skimmers....they seem like a great choice from what I'm seeing in these comments, I will definately be checking them out....thank you!
I can vouch for the Uniqlo silk shirt is fab quality for the price!! xx
Wow! What a month, Michelle. You look fab in Essentials! I'm not sure on these chinos and I'm a big fab of chinos having a few pairs myself. I have a couple from Boden which I live and of course the Gap mini skimmers. Lynne x
ReplyDeleteWhat a month Lynne....it's all been brilliant though!!
DeleteSounds like I need to get myself into Gap quick smart and try the mini skimmers!! xx
Well done for a great month. I love Uniqlo although I have only purchased thermals and some fleeces for Nancy. The delivery and quality are really good. I love the top you have on with the Khaki's but I am afraid I am not keen on the chinos. I have to try on, with Gap, as I can be one of about three sizes? I love all your daily looks too. xx
ReplyDeleteHi Helen! It's been a super month so far....you are having a bit of a mad March what with starting your blog too!!
DeleteIt is fab getting such great, honest feedback....it helps especially if you are unsure about an item, so thank you! The white top with the chinos is Whistles which was last Summer stock as I got it in the outlet a while ago! Can't fault Uniqlo....brilliant stuff and service :0) xx
Yay! well done Michelle. What a brilliant month you're having! I love your dotty shirt- very stylish xxx
ReplyDeleteHey Liz!! Having a great month....thank you :0)
DeletePleased as punch with the shirt! xx
Thanks for the mention Michelle - it was so exciting seeing the magazine! I love your Kurt Geiger skater shoes but am thinking the H&M ones are more my budget this month! Love your final Topshop coat:)
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome Rosanna!! It's an honour to be featured along side such stylish ladies!!
DeleteIf I didn't already have the Laurel's I probably would have kept both the H&M pairs as they are great value for the money!! xx
I'll say it again... so glad I found your blog! I think your style is super practical and stylish ... Just what I was looking for. I love every outfit you showcase. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteLinda C.
Mwah Linda!! That is so great to hear, thank you so much!! Your comment has spurred. me on as we all have days when we are not sure about what wearing, it is good to know it inspires you :0) xx
DeleteHi Michelle, congratulations on all your successes this month. If you want the chic french look have a look at Uniqlo again. From today they have a collaboration with Ines de la Fressange with some gorgeous French inspired pieces including a pair of chinos.
ReplyDeleteMaria, thank you so much for your wonderful comment!! I am off to check out the Uniqlo website!! xx
DeleteWow what a month Michelle!! Congrats on the mag feature, all you girls looked amazing! Love the new purchases, but agree the H&M shoes are no match for the KG's, they just look a lot more clumsier in comparison. I really want a pair but they will have to be quite fine looking as I have small narrow feet and clumpy shoes look awful on me.
ReplyDeleteThanks Trea....what a month indeed!
DeleteIf you are looking for a narrower skater shoes try the Topshop Vamp, I agree that the H&M ones look a lot chunkier, I spolit myself with the KG ones! xx
Congrats on the magazine article Michelle!! I think the chinos look great on you,looking for a similar pair myself. Have a good weekend:)
ReplyDelete~Anne xx
Thank you Anne!
DeleteI look forward to seeing how you get on with the chinos! xx
I think the Gap Khaki's look good Michelle but I understand if you don't feel comfortable. I have a pair of Current Elliot Captains Trousers which were a sale buy a few years ago but something tells me I won't get into them this year! Love the Uniqlo blouse and agree it's a no brainer xx
ReplyDeleteI don't these chinos are right on me Sharron, but I will keep looking in hope I can achieve the look I was after! I shall check out the Current Elliot's just to see how the styles compare, thank you xx
DeleteThank you for the mention Michelle! So exciting to be in print isn't it?! And congratulations on such a great month and doesn't everything seem better when the sun is shining too?!
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure about chinos either for me. I'm yet to find a really great pair. Bought tonnes and given tonnes away. I have just bought a pair of red ones from H&M though and they're great! xx
You are most welcome for the mention Laura! It was so exciting to see the article, it has a been a fantastic few weeks for me....and you are right things are so much better once the sun starts making an appearance!
DeleteI tried some chinos in H&M but they were slim fit and I want something a bit slouchier but it's early days and I 'm sure they will have more in so I shall keeping looking xx
You've had an amazing month & its all so deserved! I'm so excited for you Michelle & look forward to hearing which path you take! I'm not sure on the Chinos....they don't look bad on you at all but I think its the colour that doesn't sit right! Do they do them in a darker shade? Might be worth a try! You look amazing in Essentials & the hot pink does look fab on you! I'm loving my Skaters & you so inspired me to go for them! Have a wonderful weekend! Ax
ReplyDeleteTis so exciting isn't it Andrea?! Really looking forward to having a change and finding something really challenging!!
DeleteI did look at the khaki chinos but I have some khaki skinny's and cargo pants but you could be right.....maybe it's the shade that just does nothing for me!
Glad you have gone for the skaters....I feel like they bring everything up to date! You have a lovely weekend too! xx
Michelle - what well deserved recognition you've had this month in Essentials. And I'm loving all the comments - your style is so accessible and that's why I love your blog. I feel like I can try all these new trends like the trainers and bomber jackets etc..as they work on you. Regarding the chinos - I'd keep looking, You'll find a pair soon but they are just not the best shape for you. Ditto the skater shoes. I've found the cheaper makes are quite high up the front and look at tad too mannish for me. The KG ones are perfect and look gorgeous on you. I've tried on the Topshop ones and I'm not won over yet - it was the checked ones though - I prefer the croc ones having seen them online later. Looking forward to seeing your rock them and then I might just invest..
ReplyDeleteHave a super weekend lovely, Avril x
Hey Avril, thank you for the fabulous comment! It is so lovely to hear that you think my style is so accessible.....it has taken years to evolve but I feel I'm getting there at last as I am finally happy with pretty much everything in my wardrobe at the moment. I am trying to buy a bit better and buy classic investment pieces to wear with the more on trend items!! I think that's why I'm pretty stuck on finding the right chinos, I thought I would throw on a pair on they would work but it would there are a few different styles and I need to keep trying them....I am sure to get there in the end if I keep persevering!!
DeleteI'll keep you posted on the Topshop ones as I have purchased.....it just remains to be seen if I keep them.....they are lower on the front and quite narrow in the foot and certainly daintier than the H&M ones!!
Hope you have a terrific weekend too! xx
Yay Michelle that's so exciting about Essentials magazine and I love the black and white/bright pink combo!
ReplyDeleteI actually like your Gap chinos - maybe they just need to be rolled up another 'level', they look great with your skaters and your top is really pretty - that's a hit from me x
Thank you Kitty.....it was fab to be approached....never mind see myself in print!! I need to take a leaf out of your book and put the pink with some grey as that looks so lovely!!
DeleteI've tried some more chinos today...unfortunately not the right size but I was on the right track.....I will find a pair, eventually!! xx
Ooh Michelle, I missed this post somehow. You look fantastic in Essentials. Many many congratulations xx
ReplyDeleteAwesome work.Just wanted to drop a comment and say I am new to your blog and really like what I am reading.Thanks for the share
ReplyDelete