Irrationally, I wondered if anyone would ask my favourite colour that day. Because it's blue, in case you were wondering. Being dressed head to toe, well knee if we're being particular, in pink is a rare sight for me. There was a time I vowed never to wear pink, in fact I hated it! Racking my brains it was about age 9 I think when lots of girls wore pink and it was something that made me cross. Not in a feminist kind of way, just that the colour annoyed me, most likely to it's over prolific usage. At that time, I think my colours of choice were purple and yellow but plenty of black.

These days I'm far more open with colour choices, in fact my wardrobe has a rainbow of shades within. I'm not keen on nudes though, beige and brown tend to get avoided. And navy.

 POCKETS. On of the many reasons that this dress is a firm, longstanding favourite.
Oh yes, I'm wearing my specs in pictures for a change! While I always wear them for driving, they don't often make it out of the car except when I forget. I've been so happy with them and feel like they suit both the shape of my face and personality. Not bad for £25. *Pats self on the back*

A new dress, new to me anyway. It was the perfect frock to wear on Sunday as we took a drive out to have a wander around the most delightful garden as part of the National Garden Scheme. The concept hadn't reached me before a few weeks ago but when the opportunity arose, we answered. What is nicer than wearing a pretty and elegant dress to promenade around an English country garden? Of course I got snap happy amongst the flowers but it would have been rude to take outfit shots on private property so I opted for the safety and solitude of the buttercups.
And I just want to say that monstrous spot or not, I don't meddle with pictures of myself as a matter of principal. I wear eyeliner, mascara and lip balm for which there is no apology but feel no urge to cover up blemishes. That's just who I am at the moment.
The white collars and cuffs set this dress apart from virtually everything else I own. A strong collar is a statement in itself but teamed with the mid arm sleeve cuffs it's a winning combination. Fortunately the sleeves are just the right fit; not too tight and not baggy to the extent of flapping. In fact the whole of the neckline meets my satisfaction, a high neckline is one of my favourite features of attire.
It's almost as though a photograph of a rose has been used for the print as its so life-like. I need more roses in my life, one of my favourite scents is rose. So unmistakable and simple.

I pinned a couple of roses in my hair for good measure, which reminds me that I do want to expand my collection of hair accessories as flowers are very much 'me'.

This dress definitely makes me think of when ladies went to church and wore their Sunday best, turned out all smart and elegant.

Take care,
Sophie

A long sleeved dress is a must-have as part of my wardrobe as you can sneak all manner of layers underneath it. My extremities suffer with the cold even indoors over winter - I often jest that I must be part lizard. Some people are naturally warm all the time which makes me so envious; how convenient! I used to think that increasing my exercise regime would increase my circulation to keep me warmer but there has been absolutely no discernible difference. Cold from the elbows and knees onwards. Nippy toesies and nosy.

There is something enchanting about a black dress with bold coloured florals. Until I reviewed these photographs I had no idea there were sold black squiggly lines down the front, back and sleeves. It would look nicer in my opinion to maintain a consistent covering of pattern all over - but there we go. In my mind's eye I would secretly love to design a range of clothing each season which would be made up of pieces that would be timeless and give a nod to the colours and trends of the time but not to the extent of rendering them out of place in years to come. It would make for an amazing project. Maybe one year?

Big sleeves! The fabric is regrettably too lightweight for a breeze as it billows and gets buffeted all over the show. Ah well, you live and learn.
It'll soon be bare legs weather which will be so much more pleasant.
Sophie 

It's not often you see me in a white dress; I'm all about summer comfort at the moment and this cool midi is perfect for sunny days out and about.
I was invited by Boohoo to take part in their new dress of the month feature and we all know I adore a little styling challenge. The exciting part was not knowing anything about the dress before it arrived (and I must admit I was a little nervous that I was completely in the dark about it) then wearing it however I fancied. We'll see how the others wore it by the end of the month too. I've often browsed the Boohoo site and know they have a really varied selection of pieces, something for every occasion so it really was a mystery what the dress would be like!

When the parcel was delivered I was relived that I instantly liked this pretty white lace panelled dress. It's one which I wouldn't have chosen myself on the basis that it's quite strappy and I would have been concerned about the lace panels being too revealing but honestly, I needn't have fretted because this dress is an absolute dream! It just goes to show that I ought to step out of my comfort zone more often and try new styles as there is much fun to be had.

The skirt is a swishy beaut. I love how it has plenty of material but not too much to be bulky. The length is ever-so-practical and flattering. Knees covered (usually) but equally, the hem is well out of danger from dragging in the mud.
I decided to style my dress in the way that immediately sprung to mind - because gut instinct takes a lot of beating. My little cropped denim jacket was my first choice as it's a really easy light way of adding a layer without completely covering up. I also reached for a skinny brown leather belt to break up the long length and add  little detail to the blank canvas. I'm still feeling chuffed I tied it in a cute little knot - so much more interesting than just using the punched holes.
My pretty necklace was a gift from Hazel who perhaps knows my taste as well as I do, isn't it a beaut? As usual, a stack of bright bangles on my arm which always makes me feel at home. And last but by no means least, my trusty brown ankle boots.
I feel like this dress has plenty of scope for restyling up for autumn. On a cooler day I would wear it with my cowboy boots and a chunky knit jumper. Or huge sturdy heels and a jacket. But this is a dress which has so much potential.

What do you think of my outfit?
Sophie
Big thank you to Boohoo for sending me this dress to style. All content and opinions are my own as always

 Simple green accessories. Ankle boots.

Sophie

The sleeves are most particular and add to the shape of the dress; it makes my shoulders appear wider and by default my waist looks narrower. The cut and fit is so comfortable, really a high quality piece and one I'm happy to keep in my wardrobe all summer  long.


Summer is not complete without sunglasses, ankle boots and a little bag. I'm so glad things are changing.
Have you found any pieces perfect for summer?
Sophie

An excellently written book of countryside lore I have been reading has been refreshing my memory on a few things and teaching me new (old) ideas too. I've heard the phrase 'ne'er cast a clout 'til May is out' before, from my grandmother but her definition was different to that printed; the rule being don't take your vest off until the end of May. Rather wishing I had heeded such valuable wisdom. BRRRRRR! It was colder than it looked and although the sun was out and shining merrily, the breeze was right chilly as was the shade.
This dress is a long-standing resident in my wardrobe. A curious gem pattern which perhaps had never been the at the height of fashion and thus cannot feel too too out off trend. I like the way it has long sheer sleeves and requires a black under-layer dress to keep it modest. The fit is an easy elasticated waist

I'm on the look out for more flowers for my hair as this is something that I really to do; adding a definite bit of light-heartedness to life. How many stern people do you see wearing cheerful accessories?
Remember, keep that vest on for the rest of the month!
Sophie

I have so much fun putting together outfits! My wardrobe has all sorts of treasures buried within which gives me no end of smiles when deciding how to dress. One thing I've never shied away from is dresses in winter; there are easy ways to wear all your favourite numbers including summer dresses so there is no good reason to wave goodbye over the cooler months.


When George at Asda challenged me to style up a summer dress to wear, I cracked my knuckles and primed myself for some fun. If you have a particular dress in mind then my advice is to take a good hard look at the dress and if you're not all that familiar with it then I'd suggest popping it on so you can figure out what's going to look best with it. The neckline and sleeves will dictate what's going to look good underneath; a little roll neck top underneath will keep your neck warm as well as allow you to sneak even the ugliest of thermal vests underneath without anyone knowing. Shhh! I won't tell. My red crochet dress (£16)  is a really fun little* number, the material is soft and the bold colour is going to look great all year round. I classify red as a neutral these days as there seems to be precious little that it doesn't go well with.
*so little in fact that I had to pop on little tutu skirt to make myself decent

If it's super cold out then thermal tights or leggings, but if it's mild then consider socks. I'm a little obsessed with over the knee socks at the moment and these come in a pack of two for £3.50, hurrah! Boots or shoes, take your pick. I plumped for some comfy black ankle boots (can you go wrong with an ankle boot? No!) they aren't bad for the tiny price tag of £12.

Jumper, jacket, cape or whatever tickles your fancy. I've never got along with sleeveless jackets that well but I couldn't resist this faux fur gilet as it's so gorgeously soft and warm (£20). Keeping cosy is key to feeling comfortable so add a scarf if you fancy or a coat when heading outside. Wearing a hat always proves a winner for me on nippy days and this cute knitted baker boy cap is definitely going to become a staple! (£6). Last but not least I chose to wear some fingerless gloves; these black ones have pretty glittered wrists and come in a pack of two with a pink pair of gloves too for £2.50.

Hands up who thought I dressed as Santa? You meanies!

Do you wear dresses in Winter? And have I inspired you to try something new?
Sophie
Thanks to George at Asda for sending me this outfit! All content and opinions my own as always.