Ian and I were up in the North East at the weekend and for the first time in about two decades, I went to a firework display. I made an Instagram Reel which shows off the stunning scenery up on the coast, the fireworks and this, a complete new outfit. This is an accompanying short review of each element of said outfit.
Cream satin pussy bow blouse
I love a pussy bow blouse. Wearing one, especially in silk or satin is an effortless way to elevate a simple outfit. I have a navy silk one that I wore over and over. So much so in fact, that it faded after being washed so I bought some navy Dylon and restored it. Anyway, I digress.
We have a very busy run up to Christmas with a lot of social occasions in the diary, so I decided to invest in a few new pieces that I can mix and match with my existing wardrobe. I also had some birthday money so it was a guilt-free spree.
Hawes and Curtis are known for their shirts and blouses and they have a fabulous selection of both men’s and women’s wear. I ordered three satin pussy bow blouses. This plain cream one, which is new season and full price and two from the outlet: a leopard print and a floral. They are very well made but this cream one runs a little small so I wish I’d have got the larger size. The leopard and floral fit true to size.
Faux leather culottes
Phase Eight is one of the few womenswear shops in Skipton. These amazing faux leather culottes were in the window and I impulse bought them during my lunch hour. They are so supple and soft and they’re high-waisted so are very flattering. They’re different from anything I’ve had before and I love them. I’m going to style them with the other two Hawes and Curtis blouses as well as with sweaters, sequin tops and pretty much every other top in my wardrobe. They fit true to size and for reference I’m 5 ft 9, 175cm tall.
Boden Chelsea boots
You can’t have failed to notice the plethora of white, cream and other light neutral-coloured Chelsea Boots around at the moment. Mine are from Boden and are in the delectably named Irish Cream colourway. I like the colour because it isn’t as stark as some of the very light ones which can look a little utilitarian. Now these run large. I have got A LOT of Boden footwear and always wear size 41, so I duly ordered a 41 in these. The were huge. Absolutely huge. So I returned them and swapped for the 40 which fit perfectly. So definitely size down. They’re beautifully made and very comfortable- I love them. You’re going to see a lot of these chunky Boden Chelsea boots this winter. They come in black too by the way.
Barbour quilted coat
On to my coat. I wanted something really warm and cosy but something that is smarter than the rest of my practical coats. I looked at several including one from Boden, but I decided to get one from a “proper” outdoor shop. This one, the Silt quilted jacket from Barbour, ticked every box. The teddy fur at the neckline is so warm and soft. I’m thrilled with this coat.
Notes
This isn’t a sponsored post. Gifted items are identified as such and affiliate links are identified by an asterisk. *
Cream satin fitted pussy bow blouse: Hawes and Curtis.
*Martha faux leather culottes: Phase Eight.
*Chunky Chelsea boots in Irish Cream: Boden.
Silt quilted jacket: Barbour.
