Work Smarter, Not Harder

As a kid I was a wannabe tomboy.  I shunned dolls and barbies and instead I would attempt to muck about with my nephews, playing shoot 'em up games and climbing trees.  In reality, I would always just stand around watching them, egging them on from afar ... I didn't want to get my clothes dirty ... naturally! ;)

Anyway, I was fascinated by basketball which was something my nephews got me into, in particular Michael Jordan who was a huge icon of the 80's.

My big brother went to America when I was about 11 and came back with the ultimate gift for me.  My very own pair of Nike Air Jordan.  Honestly, if this didn't make me the coolest kid in the class, I don't know what would!

My original Jordan ... still think these look amazing! 

Turned out it earned me about 3 minutes of cool points at school and devastatingly for me, on the first day I wore them I fell down some stairs, causing a huge noticeable rip in the leather of one of the shoes.  Waaaa-aah :(

Fast forward to being a grown up.  I enjoy dressing up in heels, dresses, painting my face and making sure never to over exert myself by climbing trees or looking sweaty.  Ugh, what a girl!  The Nike Air Jordan that I treasured so, have been chucked in the bin by my parents when they moved from the family home .... never to be forgiven for that one, I tell you!

So in my grief for my lost but not forgotten Jordan's, my wonderful Mr who jet sets back and forth to the US ... returned from his most recent trip with a 'little surprise'.  Holy Schmoking, I nearly fell off my seat when I unwrapped the box to find the silhouette of Michael Jordan's infamous jump on the front of the box.

He had only gone and bought me a replacement for the pair that to this day I still rave about (I mean come on, this is a whole blogpost dedication to them!!).  They might not be the exact model I once owned but they are colourful, chunky and Jordan! I love them!

And the most ironic thing about this tale?  I still haven't worn them outdoors.  I keep replaying the moment I feel down those stairs as a kid ... I couldn't take it if I ruined another pair!!!  Therapy, please!

Anyway, big props to the Mr for such a cool treat!

x

On my way to Geordie Shore

With my holiday still a long way off, I am breaking up a bit of summer with a trip to Newcastle to visit some special girls in my life.

Well, Gateshead to be exact then a trip to Leeds for a big birthday bash!  Today I have made mental notes, sketches and lists of what to wear, what make up will be required and what needs to be done in prep.  This is how I stay organised.

As well as the DIY mani, pedi, hair zshoosh and fake tanning sesh this evening, I need to pack my pre-styled outfits into one measly hand carrier.

Instead of preaching to you on packing light ... (I am still in the process of mastering this but will hopefully have some tips by my next big holiday) I thought I would show you some of the outfits I will be taking for day and evening.

I have been assured by Mr Weatherman that the weather will hold out and we will indeed be in for a sunny weekend so I think it's probably a good time to get the legs out again.

White denim shirt dress: Motel at ASOS
Studded belt: purchased in Philadelphia
Crossover stone bag: Topshop
Multi colour beaded bracelet: Mango.
Trainers: Nike at Urban Outfitters

During the day I expect we will be doing a bit of shopping, lunching and the odd cocktail.  Comfort is always the key when you are up to a bit of shenanigans so I have gone for a simple summer dress that is reminiscent of Wimbledon season.

Fringed Top: ASOS
Denim studded shorts: Miss Selfridge
Fringed sandals: Warehouse
Bag: Topshop
Bangle: Miss Selfridge
Ring: Ydeltuyt
Necklace: H&M

Another daytime outfit tailored for comfort again.  I love wearing this for afternoons in a beer garden and the odd boat rave when they come around.  It is such a comfy combo that it will serve me well for farewell drinks and my train home.  The top was a bargain purchase a few years ago from ASOS and it has to be my most worn item of clothing - it can be worn in many different ways, casual and glam.  I adore fringing reflected on the top and sandals - gah, I am so 80's sometimes!

I love this bag, it was a gift from my friend Stacie. It's so versatile and seems to go with everything.  It has a real festival feel about it and I think the blue stone in the centre is just gorgeous.

Brazilian print dress: Warehouse
Blue platform shoes:  Carvela
Blue clutch bag:  Zara
Bangles and cuff: Mango and Warehouse
Earrings:  Miss Selfridge
Selection of rings from H&M, Primark, Ydeltuyt and Accessories Online

It wouldn't be a big fat Geordie weekend without a party outfit in tow.  This dress is a recent purchase from Warehouse, I love the clashing pattern and colours throughout so I have tried to clash some of the accessories too without becoming too much of a muddle.  There is a slight twist in the front of the dress and so too in the bag which complements it nicely.

So all there is for it now is to get the vino chilled, the falsies at the ready and an endless supply of instant fake tan for these pasty ol' legs of mine!!