Grassington 40s Weekend

Last year was my first attendance at the Grassington 40s weekend.  You can read about my day here

Having such a good time last year, this year I decided to dress up with the red dogwood patterned Isabel dress from Lindy Bop.  I have added a link as the dress is now on sale for £17.00! (I haven't been asked to promote Lindy Bop, I just wanted to share a bargain!)

Here are some of my photographs from the day.

New Season, New Handbag!

August.  The time when the temperature starts to drop (not that we had that much of a Summer!), the nights start to draw in and we begin to pull out our jumpers and warm coats.

For me, I have an August ritual that I have carried out every year since I started working.  When it comes to work wear, I like to invest in a good, warm but stylist coat that is going to last me through the Autumn and Winter months.  I typically will wear the same coat every day to work so by the time Winter has finished ravaging us, it usually needs replacing.  I just bought this fit and flare coat from SimplyBe.

Same goes for my work handbags.  I typically use a large handbag that I can throw everything into, but over the course of the months wear and and tear does start to show and it needs replacing.  Autumn is the perfect time for me to shop around and find myself a bargain.

What I tend to use is Love The Sales where I can check out all my favourite brands and designers in the same place and everything shown is from their sales line.  I have narrowed my choices down to four handbags now.  Help me choose?

Boden £96.00

Versace Jeans £152.00 

Dune £38.00

Radley £94.00 - half price!!

The Wedding Industry And The Digital Age

The majority of retailers are operating online these days, or at least keeping up a strong online presence. Some stores, such as Amazon and ASOS, do not even have any physical stores. However, the wedding industry has maintained a strong offline presence — with brides needing to try on their wedding gowns before they buy, grooms having several suit fittings, and of course, who would want to miss out on the opportunity to have a tasting session at your venue for your wedding breakfast? But with new technologies and social media apps, is it time for the wedding industry to make a transition into the digital world?

To put the rise of online shopping into perspective, in the last twelve months it was reported that around 87% of UK customers have purchased at least one product online. From the year 2016, digital sales have increased by 21.3% and are forecast to increase by 30% by the end of 2017. But does this mean that wedding vendors will have to make the transformation online too? Retailers of tension setengagement rings, Angelic Diamonds, investigates further.

What does the future hold?

As companies increase their online presence, it will be interesting to see whether the wedding industry follows suit or remains successful offline.

New technologies, particularly social media, has already affected the industry and how customers are shopping. With apps such as Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook; brides and grooms can find so much inspiration for their big day with just a few clicks. Modern couples are now using new technology when wedding planning. In fact, 42% of people use social media to plan their wedding — with 41% of brides following photographers on social media, 37% of brides following venues and 14% following florists.

The internet is helping brides search for dresses and vendors too – TheHuffington Post reported that 61% of brides search for gowns through their mobile (up from 27% in 2011) and 57% search for wedding vendors in the same way (this figure was 22% in 2011).

Social media is not only useful for customers, but it is beneficial for companies in the industry, too. The apps provide a platform for wedding planners, venues, florists, and other wedding suppliers to showcase what they have to offer. Instagram and Pinterest, which is used by 64% of brides, have now become a couple’s go-to platform for all their inspiration, a digital alternative to a wedding fair. 

Suppliers who have not yet invested time into creating a social media profile for their business could be missing out on free exposure.

27% of modern couples suggested said that they would create a hashtag for their special day, too.

Digital exposure

It appears that the future could remain promising for wedding vendors. Whilst it is likely that companies will need to go digital at some stage to stay up to date with the latest technologies, and keep their head in the game, there might always be a place for them offline within the industry.

In fact, it is likely that the industry would struggle if many of the companies became digitalised. 

Wedding fairs have been around for centuries, and there is a reason for that; whilst modern couples use social media for visual inspiration, wedding fairs are still a great way for suppliers to engage face-to-face with potential customers. For most people, their wedding day is the biggest day of their lives so it’s important that they can speak face-to-face with suppliers, and physically see what they have to offer.

There is no escaping the digitalisation of shopping, and it is suggested that the wedding industry will have to conform to the trend in some way. However, it appears that it is during the inspiration stages of the wedding planning process that the internet is most useful. The industry is definitely not yet ready to wipe out all traditional methods of wedding planning. There’s no question that there is still a demand for the physical processes. Maybe, it’s just time for suppliers and other industry professionals to use digital as a means to extend their business and gain more exposure. 

*Collaborative piece

5 Tips to Improve Your Reproductive Health

Whether you have an interest in conceiving with your partner or you want to live a healthier lifestyle, it is important to take care of all aspects of your health. Often times people think about weight loss, becoming fit, or eating healthier but there are many other aspects to one’s overall wellness that can positively or negatively impact one’s quality of life. This article will focus on how you can take care of your reproductive health so that when you are ready to bear a child, your body will be able to do so.

1. STD Testing. Regardless of your relationship status, if you are sexually active, you should get tested for STD’s at least once a year. If you are a woman, getting tested can be as easy as asking your doctor to do an extra swab during your annual obgyn appointment. If you do not have annual check-ups, you can still get an STD test from your doctor or even online. Checking for diseases can alert you to potential problems that you may have while trying to conceive. Some diseases do not have symptoms so they can be around for a long period of time without you knowing. Clearing up any potential diseases can help you conceive quicker.

2. Track your cycle. Knowing your cycle can help you feel connected to your body and will allow you to be in tune with yourself in a way that is empowering. Knowing your cycle will help you pinpoint certain parts of the month where you may feel tired, crave chocolate, or experience an acne breakout and help you prepare for these times in your cycle. Not to mention, when these things happen you can practice self-compassion instead of passing judgement on to yourself as to why your body is acting the way that it is.

3. Choose a birth control method that works well for you. At your annual appointment with your doctor, be sure to discuss your birth control method and how it working for you. If you take an oral contraceptive, be sure to ask about the latest prescriptions and share any side effects you have experienced from the one you currently take. Perhaps there is a new release that could be a better option for you. By talking to your doctor, you can learn about new birth control options so that you can always make the best decision for today and your future.

4. Drink water. Hydrating your body is imperative to living a healthy lifestyle. Believe it or not, drinking enough water can also help you stay lubricated during sexual activity and will help with conceiving if that is your goal.

5. Take care of yourself. Yes, it is important to visit your doctor annually and participate in STD screenings from time to time, but it is also important to practice self-care and have high standards of hygiene. Keeping yourself clean and fresh is important to staying healthy and free of illness.

Hair Regrowth after Alopecia: What to expect

Alopecia is a very broad term for hair loss. There are many different types of alopecia you can end up with, all with different symptoms and signs. Some of the most common types of Alopecia include Male (and female) pattern baldness, Anagen Effluvian, and Scarring Alopecia. 

Pattern Baldness is the most common type of hair loss, and effects most people over the age of 50. In some cases, Pattern Baldness can affect people before this age. Signs that you have this type of hair loss include a receding or “horseshoe” hairline. It’s thought this type of hair loss is hereditary, meaning it runs in the family. 

If you’re hoping to regrow your hair with this type of hair loss, there are some treatments out there that could help you, which are outlined below. This type of hair loss is completely natural, and means that your hair is less than likely to grow back once it has been lost.

If you are suffering from Anagen Effluvian, you can expect hair loss nearly everywhere on the body. From the top of the head to your face and arms, this type of hair loss is completely widespread and is caused by treatments such as Chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, such as Radiotherapy. This type of hair loss is temporary; you can expect regrowth once you have completed your treatment. 

When your hair grows back after experiencing this type of hair loss, it can be a different colour, texture and feel to the hair you had before your illness. It isn’t entirely understood why this happens to those who experience Anagen Effluvian, however there are still ongoing studies.

Scarring Alopecia is a result of another complication, either illness or accident. In this type of alopecia, the hair follicles are completely destroyed, and hair will no longer grow from the affected area. This type of hair loss is rare, and will only affect 7% of those with hair loss issues.

Other types of hair loss diagnosis from which your hair will grow back includes Telogen Effluvium, and Alopecia Areata. If you are worried about your hair loss, and it’s affecting you, you can speak to your GP about options available to you. In some cases, treatment can be administered in order to stimulate hair follicle growth. Finasteride and Minoxidil are two examples of this. If you’re too embarrassed to visit your doctor, or you would like to deal with your hair loss on your own terms, you can buy treatments for yourself online with sites such as Minoxidil2U.

Guest Article written by Gina Kay Daniel

Why I'm Sick Of Rules For Women

So I saw this today about women preventing rape and my brain exploded with rage.  I am so sick of women being blamed for their rapes, not being believed, treated abominably in Court by defence barristers and most of all, the rules that we are apparently supposed to follow in order to avoid being raped.

The thing is, these rules seem to change by the day and completely contradict each other.  Examples:

1. Wear nail polish and stick our fingers in drinks to make sure we don't get spiked.
2. Wear chastity belts, oh no sorry they are calling them anti rape underwear.
3. Don't wear "provocative clothing". Leave something to the imagination they tell us.  What do you think we have hiding under our clothes, the bridge to Terabithia?
4. Don't wear headphones in public. 
5. Walk in pairs (if you don't have a friend handy, grab the hand of the nearest woman)
6. Don't get drunk, even in your own home.

However, 

1. Talk back to the fella following you on the street. Poor fella just wants a date, why are you being so rude?
2. Say thanks when a man catcalls you.  He probably spent at least a second thinking up such an original compliment as "Hey sugar tits".  Be grateful!
3. Don't walk down the street with your keys in your fingers. Don't you trust us? Not all men!
4. Do have a relationship with a guy friend because he fancies you. He put kindness coins in after all! He's a nice guy, you're not allowed a type!

No sweetie, he isn't dangerous, he is wearing face fashion!

Most importantly, do not under any circumstrances suggest that rapists are the ones responsible for rape because you will then drown in a sea of "not all men"! This also completely ignores that men get raped too.

Have I got it all?  Because I am sick of women being blamed for crimes committed against them.  

Space-Saving Tips For The Home

There are lots of ways in which anyone can save space inside their homes and make the property seem larger than it is in reality. Indeed, there are even some tricks of the light people can use to achieve that goal, and there are some excellent tips listed on this page. Anyone who lives in a small flat or apartment will benefit from putting some of these ideas into action. When all’s said and done, most people like the minimalist theme these days, but that’s almost impossible to achieve in a small space when there is lots of furniture. Well, it was virtually impossible, until now…

Source

Invest in a retractable table

Most people like the idea of eating their meals at a dining table. Of course, the issue in small homes is that there isn’t always enough room. Thankfully, there are many extending dining table sets available on the market today that will retract when they’re not in use. It’s sensible for everyone in a small property to use products of that nature to ensure they don’t waste lots of space. Also, it’s wise to shop around because some retailers offer better prices than others, and sometimes it’s possible to get some fantastic deals using online auction websites like eBay.

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Look for furniture that contains hidden storage

There are lots of furniture items available that include hidden storage space at the moment. It’s also possible to use the DIY method to build something of that nature. That is fantastic for people who reside in houses smaller than most because the products allow them to ensure the place always looks tidy. Some of the most attractive furniture that contains hidden storage includes:

• Beds
• Sofas
• Coffee tables

So, ladies just need to search online and visit their local home stores to assess the market and work out which items will provide the most benefits to them.

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Hang mirrors in strategic positions

While this idea doesn’t technically save space, hanging mirrors around the home will create that optical illusion. The process should also ensure the property makes the best use of natural light possible. So, that could mean readers don’t have to turn their electric lights on until much later in the day than they otherwise would have done. Just place on mirror opposite a window at a slight angle. That should be enough to ensure the light reflects and shines towards a different area of the room. Then, hang another mirror in that area and repeat the process.

With a bit of luck, people who manage to implement the tips from this article will save a lot of space at home and ensure the house appears as tidy and well-kept as possible. Those who choose to use the last suggestion will also make their property appear larger to guests, and that’s always a bonus. Anyone who wants to learn more and discover different ideas just needs to continue their research online. However, to be fair, this post covers all the techniques that tend to work well across the board. So, now all readers have to do is create a plan and put it into action as soon as possible.

Taking The Time to Take Care Of Your Mind

A few years ago it was my good friend Shona's birthday and she wanted to go to a spa for the day and stay over at night.  As it was her 30th birthday, I could not say no, but I was dreading it. 

The whole process and (to be honest), the thought of walking around wearing a swimsuit, did not appeal at all.  I bought a swim dress which eased my nerves a lot and steeled myself for what was ahead.  I cared so much about what other people thought back then.  I worried that it would ruin the day for me.

It turned out to be a revelation.  By the end of a day of relaxing, laying back in the jacuzzi, steam rooms and swimming a few lengths in the pool, my mind was calmer and clearer than it had been for a long time.

Fast forward a few years and I am now a member of my local thermal spa.  I started by going a few times with my friend and then one day, I decided to go it alone for the first time.  This was a huge thing for me, but my mind became so clear and calm every time I went to the spa, that I knew that I needed to try.

Each step that I accomplished sounds so small, but for me, it was a huge leap.  Going on my own in the first place, sitting on my own in the jacuzzi, getting a cocktail, having a meal midday.  The first few times were hard, but the calmness in my mind that followed was worth every step.

Do you like my new swimsuit?  It is the first swimsuit that I have worn in 15 years. Probably more. I have finally gotten to a place in my life where I accept my anxiety issues and am in a better place in my confidence that I have ever been.

Previously on this blog I have posted many photographs of myself.  My dresses that I wear 24/7 do not hide the fact that I am fat, but have always been flattering, cut to diminish size sometimes and whilst always honest, have never left me feeling completely exposed.

Today, here I am.  I have a belly, I have wobbly thighs.  This is me.  Exposed.

I own my body, in every form that it takes.  My legs are thinner than they used to be due to walking my puppa, but do I care if my body does not change further? No.

My body is my own and I accept it whether I remain the size I am now forever, or lose weight.  My weight is unimportant to me.  My self worth, my self confidence and my happiness mean everything.  I am happy.

Now I can sit alone and not feel exposed.  I can sit and have a meal or a drink and not wonder if people are staring at me.  All I care about is that I can go to a place where I can put my feet on the side of the pool and float, looking at the stars in the ceiling above and reach calm.  Wipe my anxiety filled head and feel like me again.

This is a massive step for me, showing myself so exposed on this blog; and it makes me happier than you will ever know.

Last shot of the puppa who wanted to be involved in the photographs today and for someone so cute, who was I to deny him?

*This swimsuit was gifted to me by UK Swimwear but all opinions are my own

Child's Play

When I was 15, we moved from my childhood home to a bungalow around ten minutes walk up the hill from us.  I am not lying to you when I tell you that I was devastated.   That house held so many memories for me that I could not bear to leave it.  

Memories of my dad reading The Far Away Tree to me on a Sunday morning, being pushed on the swing in the garden, the huge cherry blossom trees that used to tap on my window.  Family parties and birthdays, so many memories that I did not want to leave behind.

The street where we lived on was quite an unusual choice for a family.  The majority of residents were elderly and I think that I spent more time on that street talking to old ladies than I did children.  There were no outdoor playgrounds nearby either so much of what I did was based on things made up in my head.

I remember spending many an hour throwing the ball on my driveway, unsuccessfully learning how to ride a bike (my balance is bad, what can I say?) and making what I used to call potions with our elderly next door neighbour.

Starting primary school with so many children was a big of a shock as I was not used to it.  It did not stop me making friends or halter my progress.  If anything, not having many children around in my first few years I think it led to me having a better imagination which has benefited me throughout my life.

I have started walking past my old house sometimes when I take the puppa for a walk.  I wonder how it has changed and sometimes take a sneak peak through the window (from the pavement, not up to the glass haha) while I am walking past.

I can still see myself as a child running around that street, the elderly neighbours getting visits from me and the stories of their lives they used to tell me.  It was an innocent and wonderful childhood.  If I ever see that house up for sale, I will be the first one having a look around!

*Collaborative post 

5 Tips For Dining Alone #TrulyScrumptious

As I have been talking about a lot on my blog lately, I am on a quest to be more adventurous in my single life.  You don't need to be part of a couple to have fun after all!.  I want to be able to go away on my own, be it a week's holiday or a weekend away.

A city break is something that I am comfortable doing alone and next year I am looking towards trying out a new city for some culture, shopping and new food experiences.  Liverpool!

Whilst I have my plans for the culture element of my trip; as ever, the thing that I am worried about is eating alone.  Having done my research, for the shopping and eating portion of my weekend, Liverpool One has everything that I need.  With over 130 places to eat, I am really looking forward to trying out places I have never been before.  I may be the one person in the UK that has never had a Nandos!

Having tried out eating on my own several times now when I have been out or away alone, here are some tips on how to dine out in style and still feel confident when you are out of your comfort zone. 

Don't Start Out With Dinner

The first time I dined out alone was for breakfast.  I had been on a business night away and was dying for some breakfast.  But alone?  In truth, breakfast on your own is easy and a great place to start.  The only thing people are concerned about at that time in the morning is getting their coffee and something to eat.  No one cares if someone is eating alone.  Their prime thought process is "Give me coffee!!!!!!!!!!!"

Lunch is the next step.  For that, take a little help.

Take Things to Distract You

When you are convinced that people are looking at you eating alone (even though they are more than likely not), you need something to distract you while eating your meal that is going to restore your confidence and reduce your stress levels.

Your phone is the number one aid that is going to help you but I always take a book with me or, if I have some work to do, a little netbook that I can work on while still having a bite to eat and maybe a glass of wine.

Wear Something You Feel Confident In

When we feel good about ourselves, we are more confident.  You don't have to go out wearing a ball gown, the outfit can be as casual as a pair of jeans flip flops.  Just make sure that you feel good wearing it.

Bring Along Some Affirmations

When you are shy, socially awkward and convinced that people are looking at you (even when they aren't) like me, sometimes you need a reminder that you really are OK.  Put a slip of paper in your purse saying "You are doing fine".  Put a reminder on your phone to come up mid way through your meal saying "Enjoy yourself, you are doing this".

The Big One

For me, the hardest and most challenging meal to eat on your own is dinner.  Friends groups, families and couples around you, it is a daunting process.  But try to look at it another way.  One of my friends and I's favourite pastimes is people watching.  You have a whole restaurant to watch!  Is she breaking up with him?  I wonder what those girls are celebrating? How on earth is that family managing to eat with all those children running around?

Use it as entertainment.  Looking down at your food and avoiding eye contact is what will actually make you noticed.

 You can apply these tips to any solo situation when you are out in public.  Make it so that at times when you are alone, you are not alone at all.  You have yourself.  There is nothing wrong with loving some time to yourself.  As those famous boys from Liverpool said:

Love is all you need.

*In collaboration with Liverpool One

City Lights

When I was a little girl, I always said that I wanted to live in New York when I grew up.  I talked about it all the time.  City living, art, culture, shopping; the Big Apple lured me like a moth to a flame.

These days my dream has changed.  I am far too close to my friends and family to move thousands of miles away from them and the current political climes mean that living in America is nothing something that I would choose.  But city living is still something that I would like to do.

When typing my current address into address verification software, I often look at all the other places that I could be living.  What it is about always wanting what you do not have?  Country dwellers lust after the city lights, city dwellers long for the quiet of the country.  For me at a mid point between the two, the city still pulls me in.

Manchester is not too far away from where I live and it holds me in its heart.  The people are warm, friendly, open hearted and diverse.  The city itself has everything that I want.  Fabulous architecture, great places to eat, art, history and museums.

I love to visit Manchester for the weekend and soak in some culture.  Manchester Cathedral is an absolute must, whatever your religion or lack thereof.  I visited recently on a weekend away and the cathedral which was built in 1847 in a perpendicular Gothic style is a sight to behold.

If you are looking for a night out in the city, Manchester has it all.  I have been there many a time with friends and as part of a couple.  There is all something new to do or a new place to try.

Go have a cocktail at The Botanist, take in a show at the Opera House, have a wander in China Town or go and see some live music.  There are so many restaurants to suit different tastes and I love trying out new tastes and experiences. There are places that cater to you no matter what your budget and there is always a friendly welcome which is typical of the Mancunians. 

While city living is not something that I can accomplish at the moment, Manchester is the place that I would live and its heart and its people are the reason that I keep returning to it.


* Collaborative pieces.  Images are my own and from Pixabay

3 Tips For Shopping The Sales When You Are Plus Size

I must confess, I am not a fan of shopping in the sales.  Trawling through racks of clothing that have been looked at and rejected by many others before me and jostling for position for that one great item that everyone spots at the same time is not my idea of fun.

That said, the "in the shop" experience is not something that I do, mostly because the nearest shop to cater to my dress size is an hour's travel away.  Which means that 99% of the time, my shopping is online. 

Shopping in the sales online is sooooo much easier and there are many tips and tricks that I have established along the way to ensure that I get the items that I want, for a cheaper price with the minimal time and effort.

Maintain an Offline Shopping Basket

Although I love looking for new clothes, if I am strapped for cash but in need of an item of clothing, there is nothing worse than trawling through a dozen websites and navigating their sales sections.  With this in mind, what I tend to do is whenever I see something I like but cannot yet afford in the regular non sale sections, I note down the link to save for later.

I have a shopping document on my laptop where I note down my favourite items, what they are, the current price and a hyperlink to it.  Sometimes there are just a few items on this list, sometimes dozens when I have a particular event in mind.

Every week I spend around an hour checking out these links to see if any items have gone into the sale.  This technique works particularly well at the end of the season when many items have moved to the sale section.  I don't tend to move with current trends and instead focus more on what I like so I don't worry about what is "in" and "out".

Shopping the Sales in One Go

One of the most frustrating things about shopping in the sales online when you are plus size is the limited options available to you.  You know what I mean.  You hit the sale section, full of hope of finding a bargain.  You click on a section, and then filter to only include your size.  The screen refreshes and you are left with five options.  Four of which you wouldn't dress your grandmother in.

My upgrade version of my offline shopping basket is a site that I have found called LovetheSales that puts together the sales from all the sites and lets you view them all on one website.  Below is a screenshot of a search that I did on the site, filtering down to dresses and my clothing size of 24.

Did you just let out a little "Eeeeeeeek!".  Because I did.  The idea behind the site is that they host all the sale items in one place and then it takes you to the relevant website like Asos or New Look to purchase the item.  Couldn't be simpler!

Look for Discount Codes

This is something that we call should do, but usually forget.  I cannot tell you the amount of times I have shopped on a website, only later to find a 25% discount code that I could have used.  I also have cashback account with a site that I always forget to use.  

By combining items in the sale and discount codes you can often end up with a real bargain and by using my offline method, many of my favourite items have been bought this way.

Do you have any tips for shopping for plus size fashion in the sales?

Summer Wishlist

I feel that I have not talked about fashion for so long!  So to resolve this, today and tomorrow's post will be all fashion focused with favourite items in my most recent purchases and my current wishlist today and tomorrow, I am talking about how to work the sales when you are plus size.

I have always been big on patterns and bright colours.  So today I wanted to share a few pieces that I love that celebrate pattern and colour for the summer months.  First off is a recent purchase of mine, a jumpsuit that I bought from the Joe Brown Collection.

When you are plus size, finding the perfect jumpsuit can be an impossible task depending on your height, shape and the style that you are looking for.  This jumpsuit is perfect for me.  I love the bold pattern.  At 5ft 5 I had to have the length adjusted so that I wasn't falling over the hem and I also replaced the button fastening at the back with a press stud.  It is very easy to get on and off and I love it!

Next up is the dress for all occasions.  This is on my current wishlist as it is the perfect hardworking dress that can cover you for many occasions.  Again, this is a Joe Brown dress from Simply Be 

This dress will cover you for everything from going to work in the summer months to that after work drink with the girls (that turns into a few cocktails on a Friday!) simply by a change of accessories and shoes.  I would also wear this on a weekend for going out to lunch.

In September I am going to Grassington for their annual 40s weekend.  After going last night and loving how everyone had dressed up, this year I decided to do the same.  This is a dress that I have just purchased.

I love the dogwood print (which I confess I thought was cherry blossom when I first saw it).  The fit is just right and I will share photographs of the weekend after the event.  Now I just need to find the right shoes!

Lastly is a dress that is on my current wishlist from the Hell Bunny collection. 

I really like the 50s style with a sexy twist.  The length looks great and I am always a sucker for sweetheart neckline!  This is on my wishlist for the moment as I do not (yet) have the right occasion to wear it.  I may have to create one!

What are your favourite items at the moment?

The City Break Checklist

Whether it’s Barcelona, Prague or London, packing for a summer city break can be tough. Unlike beach escapes where you can throw a few bikinis and a pair of flip flops in a case, city holidays need a carefully considered wardrobe.

City breaks are naturally more active than beach holidays, as you explore all that the city has to offer. With the wrong clothing, this can be a disaster — blisters and sunburn anyone? Thought not! Daniel Footwear is here to help with their our essential city break packing checklist.  Check it out below!

Shoes

Whether it’s ancient cobbled streets or long days spent sight-seeing, there’s only one thing for it: trainers. Thankfully, we’re in the midst of a 90s revival, meaning our trainers are bang on trend, as well as super comfortable. For a glam edge to your everyday style, we love our range of Michael Kors trainers.

When day turns to night, and the clock strikes cocktail o’clock, those cobbled streets and lengthy treks still remain. However, we fully understand that you might want to add a touch of glamour to your evening outfit. Depending on what you have planned, you may want to take some heels with you — you can always take a taxi if it’s a long way away. Wedges are a popular choice, and they look great with both jeans and dresses.

We recommend packing a pair of comfortable flats, such as sliders or Fitflop ballerina shoes, and a pair of embellished sandals too. Embellished sandals are a stylish alternative to heels, perfect for channeling that beach-to-bar look, while their added glitz adds a dash of glamour that every summer night needs.

Accessories

Sunglasses are a must – especially in those typical hot climates. They help you look stylish whilst protecting your eyes from the sun rays. Who doesn’t love a big pair of sunglasses? It can get extremely hot when you are out exploring a new city, partner your sunglasses with a sunhat for an instantly glamorous look. A sunhat is a timeless accessory that will shield your face from the mid-day sun, whilst making you look very chic.

For an evening, don’t forget to pack some statement jewellery to finish your look. Bold jewellery will mirror the glitz and sparkle of your embellished sandals.

Clothing

Maxi dresses are fabulous for the summer. They are a great city break staple that are cool and stylish by day, and totally glamourous by night when partnered with a pair of wedges and a chunky necklace – very boho.

When you are out exploring the city’s history, something light and floaty is ideal to keep you cool throughout the day. Cami tops, kaftans, floral playsuits and tea dresses are perfect, and totally on trend. They’ll even look great with your trainers. Fashion that’s comfortable, who would have thought it?

We also recommend packing some t-shirts to pair with some frayed denim shorts just in case you burn your shoulders. They cover up those sore burnt bits, whilst keeping you cool when you explore rest of the city.

Sun cream

Whatever you do, don’t forget your sun cream. It can get very hot when you are out and about during the day doing activities, and you might not realise the strength of the sun’s rays. You don’t want to ruin your strip with sore sunburn, or even sunstroke. Be safe and apply plenty before you head out into the sun.

*Collaborative post

A Little Luxury in your Kitchen

Give your kitchen a luxurious feel

When you’re designing a new kitchen, it’s only natural that you’ll want to add a touch of luxury. There are several luxury appliances that you can add to your kitchen to achieve this luxurious feel, as well as making your life easier in the kitchen. Depending on your individual preferences and needs, your luxury essentials might vary.

For your caffeine fix, think coffee machines

For many of us, getting a caffeine fix from a hot cup of coffee on a morning is essential – you just can’t function without it. If that’s the case but you’re not a fan of clutter on the worktops then a built-in coffee machine might be a worthwhile addition to your list. Although they might seem pricey at first, many aren’t much more expensive than top-of-the range countertop models and think of all that money you’ll save not buying a coffee on your way to work every day. 

If you’re planning an appliance bank in your kitchen then it’s worth noting that most manufacturers are designing coffee machines to match their ovens and as a result a combination of three ovens and a coffee machine are becoming a popular configuration. Price points vary, from the very affordable semi-automatic models from Hotpoint to the pricier all-singing, all-dancing bean-to-cup coffee machine from AEG. If you can’t bear the thought of messy beans or grinds, then a Nespresso pod machine by Miele is a good option. 

For the wine lovers, think wine coolers

Whether you drink white, rose or red wine, you’ll know the importance of your wine being stored at optimum drinking temperature. Kitchens with zones for cooking, eating and entertaining are the perfect place for one of the latest luxury appliances – the wine cooler. While there might not be space for a wine cellar, the latest wine coolers are very sophisticated machines that will ensure all wines – both red and white are kept in the optimum conditions. 

Undercounter models from companies such as Liebherr, Caple and CDA vary in size from space-saving single columns to those with room enough for up to 48 bottles and featuring several temperature zones for keeping reds and whites at exactly the right temperature. Perfect placed on the dining side of an island so that guests can help themselves while you cook, look for coolers that also include UV protection and anti-vibration – to keep harmful light and stop the disturbance of sediments – as they’re important features to keep your wine at its best for longer. Larger models look great in a bank of appliances and many, such as those from Miele have elegant wooden shelving, three temperature zones and even a sommelier unit for sampling your best vintages.

For the master chef, think domino hobs

If you’re quite the dab hand in the kitchen, you’ll be aware of the importance of using the correct cooking technique for certain ingredients and dishes for the best outcome. With that in mind, if you’ve been seduced by the undeniable benefits of induction but can’t prize yourself away from the brilliance of gas for preparing stir-fried food, then incorporating domino hobs into your kitchen design might be the answer. 

These two-zone cooktops – usually measuring around 30 x 60cm come in a variety of different types. As well as gas and induction models, you can also buy charcoal-style grills for all-year-round barbecuing, steel tepanyaki plates for Japanese style griddle cooking and even fryers for perfect southern-style chicken. Whichever you choose it’s best to buy from the same manufacturer to keep the materials, design and size consistent. If you’d prefer to keep costs down with just one worktop cut, then AEG, Caple and CDA all have single glass topped hobs that include both a powerful gas burner and induction plates, proving that in some things, you really can have it all! 

For convenience, think hot water taps

Quite a new addition to the list of luxury household kitchen appliances, the hot water tap was introduced to the market following commercial models from companies such as Quooker. They began to show up in hi-end domestic kitchens for the main benefits of having boiling water at the drop of a lever. As a result, tap manufacturers began to develop their ranges, first with standalone taps and now the easier to include tri-flow monobloc with hot, cold and boiling water all in one, neat unit. 

Not just for making tea and coffee in a flash, combined with a super-fast induction hob, a boiling water tap can help you to prepare pasta and rice dishes in a flash as well as speedily steaming veg and fish. Most models heat the water to 98° but some, like those from Quooker reach 100°. Try also Grohe, InSinkErator, Franke and Zip for three-in-one monobloc models and Insinkerator and Blanco for standalone taps that are useful for prep sinks. Tanks vary in size but some are compact enough to incorporate into a small kitchen design and all designs feature child-locks to prevent accidental scalding. 

*Collaborative piece