Blogger Pressures to Always Wear Something New

I may have been blogging a year now however, when it comes to putting outfits together for posts just like this one I often find myself getting rather worked up.

Many thoughts start running through my head, including 'I thought this would look better on', 'why have I again left it til the morning of shooting to decide what to wear' and 'I just want my readers to like it!'

All of which are thoughts I kinda need to stop having. No it doesn't look as great on as I imagined, get over it and pull something else out the wardrobe. Do not leave it til the morning of, again!! And finally, yes I do hope you all like the outfits I put together, however I dress for myself and myself alone. As long as I feel happy, comfortable and confident then nothing else should matter. However if you do love my outfit I'd love to hear from you because I buzz off the compliments!

Coat - Hobbs (similar here), Necklace - Chanel, Top - H&M (similar here), Trousers - Topshop (similar here), Trainers - Adidas, Bag - Zara

Before last week, I can't quite remember when the last time was that I bought new clothes. However, with Zara being a Spring/Summer haven I recently, and very happily I might add, parted with some of my hard earned cash!

My point is, like many others I look in my wardrobe and think I have nothing to wear! Which does sometimes make me think, I can't shoot an outfit, I have nothing new enough. But I'm ready to shake this mentality.

Realistically, everything that features on my blog isn't going to be new, and that's okay. As long as I can offer similar alternatives I am happy with that.

I guess what I'm trying to say is don't ever feel the pressure from people to always buy new clothes and only post new pieces. As long as you're happy with what you're wearing that is all the matters.

One year on, these are still my favourite trousers, even more so as I lost so much weight I had to get the next size down in order for them to fit me and even they are a little baggy!

The next step of being able to post the same outfit more than once on Instagram without the fear of people realising my salary doesn't stretch far enough for me to be able to buy a new outfit for every single day.

Here's to the sustainability of the environment and my bank account!

Photography by Lauren Siddall.

Love is in the Air

It feels like only a couple of weeks ago that I was writing a post very similar to this one. But here we are again with the day that everyone either loves or hates. That's right, Valentines' Day.

This year my relationship status is very much single but I'm okay with that! So much so I feel another post coming to mind but that's for another day!

Back to the matter in hand, let's face it, Valentines' Day is a money making scheme, and can catch couples out with how much/little effect they have/ feel the need to spend.

In my opinion, it's a day which is nice to focus on and tell your significant other how much you care about them, but don't forget that it also totally acceptable to be soppy every other day of the year!

If you are however looking for some gift inspiration/ requests then look no further! I've tried to keep the gift ideas to a reasonable budget and all of which are featured I'd personally love to receive.

Lindt Lindor

If you don't think some form of chocolate for Valentines is a good idea than you may find yourself very disappointed this 14th February. Lindt is my absolute favourite chocolate so they're an easy way to my heart.

Rihanna Nude

This perfume was on my Christmas wish list and luckily I got it! It has been a favourite for quite a while now and is one that doesn't break the bank! Nude very much takes after it's name and isn't to over powering to wear on a daily basis. It's a really easy go to.

I think celebrity fragrances can be so hit a miss and I'm not going to lie I haven't really tried any other Rihanna ones, but at a fraction of the designer brands it might be something worth looking into!

Marmalade

Next up is my new favourite candle. I stumbled across Marmalade when shopping in Uppermill, somewhere me and my mum have become obsessed with! There's so many collections to choose from but I am guilty of being drawn to sweet smelling things, hence when I had to get the pomegranate & pear. With a range of different sizes there is something for everyone's budget!

Paperchase

I think as you get older, you appreciate more homeware pieces. I recently picked up this amazing jewellery tray from Paperchase. Ever since I saw the waving bear video (many years ago now, I know), I always get excited when I see something with a bear on it and this plate gave me the exact same reaction!

I've recently been wearing a mix of earrings and putting them back in their original packaging to make sure I don't lose them. With this adorable plate I can finally stop doing that.

Ella and Coco

Last but by no means least is this stunning bracelet. This is also from Ella and Coco in Uppermill. Alongside candles and homeware, they have a lovely selection of jewellery and their collection goes from delicate pieces like this one, to more fun costume pieces!

Here's hoping I've helped you with some Valentine's gift ideas and I hope you all have an amazing day celebrating with everyone you love.

Happy 1st Birthday Setting the Style - What have I learnt in my first year of blogging?

Let's rewind a year to Wednesday 1 February 2017 when I had just clicked publish on my first blog post. I had been planning content since the beginning of the year and wanted to give myself a bit of a head start having a few posts ideas already up my sleeve.

At this point I was unemployed and wanting to find a new way to express myself and share my love of fashion with the world. 12 months later and I'll admit, I haven't posted as much as I wish I had but when I have managed to get another post out there, I have been overwhelmed with the amount of views I have received.

A lot has changed in the past year, I have tried my hand at a variety of jobs, got my confidence back and made more of a conscious effort to spend more time with my favourite people. For all of these reasons, it has sometimes been hard to maintain regular posts, but is definitely something I hope to improve on in the next 12 months!

So here it is, what have I learnt in my first year of blogging?

Stay true to yourself

Comparing yourself to other bloggers is one of the worst things you could do. Everyone is on their own little journey and it's okay to go at your own pace. It may be that some people simply have more time to write and shoot than you do so naturally they're going to have more content than you are. As long as you post about topics that are important to you, that will come across and people will appreciate that.

Working full time and blogging is hard work

Monday to Friday I spend my time in an office working in admin and marketing for a local accountancy firm. Once I get home and I've had time to relax, have my tea and watch Corrie I often find it's time to get in bed and start the whole routine again the next day.

Then when it gets to weekends, I'm either catching up with friends or family and before you know it, it's Sunday night and I'm wondering where the hell my weekend disappeared to?!

Between all of this I find time to write and shoot to ensure that I have content ready to be posted. Blogging isn't the fastest process. I get what I want to say written down, get the imagery together to support the post and then once it's all complete and I've gone through it a couple of times, I get my editor (my mum) to read through and make sure everything is okay! After that I post to all my social media platforms, to ensure that everyone knows I've got a new post on my blog.

Sometimes I don't think people are aware of how much time and effect goes into blogging, but I do it because I love it, and love hearing from you.

It's okay to get writers block

I like many bloggers I imagine, experience two things on a regular basis.

My mind is either bursting with ideas and and after a couple of hours I'll find myself with 2 to 3 new posts ready to go! Or the alternative, I sit staring at my laptop screen without the foggiest idea of what I am going to write next, let alone, where I am going to find the imagery to support the posts I can't even seem to think up!

I've found with blogging, you simply just have to go with those intense power hours, and also come to terms that it's okay to not be able to think of a topic you want to talk about just because you feel that you need to get something written down.

Readers love to learn about you

Last year for my birthday I shared everything I've learnt in 25 years and it was by far my most popular post to date. Not only did it show how successful it was in reader numbers, but I also had people coming up to me and contacting me through social media to tell me how much they had enjoyed reading it and it just so happened that I had really enjoyed putting it together!

It was then that I realised how much I do love blogging and the effect that it has on my readers.

Do what you love

It's only been a year but I have loved being apart of the blogging world. If I didn't enjoy what I do, there would be no point in continuing and it would come across very clearly in the work that I produce!

This year I am hoping to write even more and I am super excited for things that are coming up which I can't wait to share with you!

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read, like and comment on posts and social media this last year. I get such a buzz from seeing that what I love to do is something that you're also interested in!

Happy 1st Birthday Setting the Style, here's to many more years of creativity.

London Calling

Back in November I took advantage of the Black Friday sales and bagged myself a Stockport to London return for just £22!

I had three days off between Christmas and new year and thought I best take advantage of them as much as I could! With my sister living in London I’m lucky that the only expense I have is the travel.

When I visit London I always try to do something different. Whether that’s seeing a television programme being filmed or visiting the V&A for their latest exhibition.

My visit this time had a little bit of a rocky start. Over Christmas my sister hadn’t been feeling very well and had a doctors appointment on my first day of visiting. Not wanting to waste anytime I made my way to the Victoria & Albert to visit the Balenciaga exhibition (I’ll get back onto that later).

As I was coming to the end of the exhibition I received a call letting me know that my sister had to go to A&E. Four hours later of waiting in a cold hospital with 10% battery on my phone she was given the all clear and able to go home, more importantly to a roast chicken dinner!

The next morning I found out that she had to rest up and I was left to my own devices to explore London. I feel like this trip has helped me to be a little more independent and I even found myself in a restaurant eating on my own, the idea of which, before this trip, terrified me!

So that’s that for all the drama, let’s have a look at what I actually got up to!

As briefly mentioned I spent my first afternoon at one of my favourite museums to see the Balenciaga exhibition. For just £12 I learnt more about the designer and how he inspired many others to follow in his foot steps. From this exhibition you learn about the amount of time and effort he put into his pieces and clientele.

Not only do you get to see a number of his pieces but there is also a whole section dedicated to designers who are inspired by Balenciaga.

If you’re in London before the 18th February I would highly recommend you pay it a visit and see what else the V&A has to offer!

As my visit was right after Christmas I thought it’d be silly not to take advantage of shopping in the sales on Oxford Street. This year my best bargains were from Topshop, managing to bag myself a pair of culottes, shoes and a dress for just £50! However I was so disappointed with Zara which is normally my go to place. Here’s hoping Spring/Summer brings in some amazing pieces and I can finally spend the voucher I have which I got back in October for my birthday...

While I was in the area I paid a little visit to Carnaby Street and being a typical northerner I found a great little restaurant which based all its meals around mash, my absolute dream! Some of you may know that I absolutely hate the thought of eating on my own/ seeing others on their own. As I was on this shopping trip alone I had no choice but to face my fear, and it was actually pretty good! Having a window seat meant I could people watch while enjoying a cider. I’m happy to say that I would be able to do it again, however it’s not something I want to make a massive habit out of.

This trip I got to try something a little different and visited the Science Museum. I didn’t have time to have a look around (but I will definitely be doing so on my next visit) as I had tickets to see Star Wars: The Last Jedi at their IMAX screen. We do have a couple of IMAX screens in Manchester however when I go to the cinema I normally just go to the standard ones. It was absolutely worth the experience! I think it’s a great idea to put the screen in the museum and seeing a film like Star Wars there was perfect!

I think it's safe to say that this trip had a few experiences which weren't originally planned, but I do think they worked in my favor in a weird way! I've discovered I can in fact travel around London on my own, (without getting lost, might I add) and it's the perfect place to find things to do even when you didn't necessarily have any plans.

2018

First things first, Happy New Year!

I hope everyone had the most amazing time last night and celebrated and welcomed the new year in, in style!

Like most people at the beginning of the new year I think about what I want to get out of the next 12 months.

In all honestly, I can only really remember one of mine from last year and I know it didn't happen, so here's hoping 2018 will be a little bit more successful.

1. Visit a new country

Okay, so this one I am kind of cheating on as last year I booked flights to Thailand for May so I already knew that this was definitely going to happen! It is however something that will always be a new year's resolution as I want to visit as many countries as I can!

2. Blog more

Next month Setting the Style turns one! I can't quite believe how quickly it has gone! I enjoy blogging so much but sometimes life does get in the way. This year I want to focus more on my blog and ensure that there is always fresh new content, not only because I love doing it but so I can keep all you lovely readers happy!

3. Challenge myself

I'm always trying to better myself, whether that's at work or with my blog. I do sometimes get comfortable with where I am and need to remember to keep pushing myself. 2018 is going to be for pushing the boundaries and ensuring I get the most out of the year in a variety of ways.

Somethings might be scary but that’ll mean I’m stepping outside of my comfort zone and working towards this resolution.

4. Exercise more

When it comes to fitness, I am the laziest person going. Last year I managed to lose a stone in weight and felt amazing afterwards. Sadly, I cannot say this was due to hammering the gym or even taking part in Park Run on a Saturday morning. I am however aware that I do need to exercise more, especially if I want to lift my chocolate ban!

I am wanting to achieve reaching 10,000 steps a day more often, sadly at the moment even doing laps around the Trafford Centre isn’t helping me get close.

5. Watch more television series

As mad as this sounds I often don't find time to watch many boxsets, and here it goes, I don't have Netflix...

Since April last year I am still only half way through the Coven series of American Horror Story and my lists of box sets I have never even seen include, Game of Thrones, Breaking Bad or Stranger Things to name only a few!

I think it's about time I dedicated a little time to seeing what all the fuss is about and biting the bullet and actually signing up to Netflix.

So there's my five resolutions for this year! I'd love to hear from you and find out what you want to get out of 2018.

If you have any recommendations on where to visit in Thailand, can let me know about any beginners exercise routines, or box sets which I can indulge in it'd be greatly appreciated!

Happy 2018 everyone! Remember you’ll get as much out of it as you put in so make it a good one!

Must Have Christmas Party Wear

Christmas party time is very much upon us and shopping for an outfit is something that people are going to either love or hate.

The good thing about a Christmas do is that every year, glitter and sequins are acceptable. But you don't need to feel like you have to wear something that screams look at me, believe it or not, a dress that can look a little more simplistic can also do the same job!

I'm one of these people who loves any excuse to dress up and luckily for me, I have my Christmas do dress ready and waiting. It doesn't contain glitter or sequins but I have mentioned that I feel like a princess in it so that's good enough for me!

Asos - £45

I thought I'd kick off this post with one of my favourite things, I love anything pearls at the minute! If you follow me on Instagram you'll see that I got a stunning pearl buttoned dress from Topshop last month.

If you're not a dress type person then this is the perfect alternative! It's still super feminine and let's face it, its classy. Also at £45, it's not a bad price!

Topshop - £10

Marks and Spencer - £35

And so the blush pink obsession continues. I thought these two could be perfect to follow the jumpsuit which will make a full look!

This is a link to the pink fluffy purse, but there is also a bag which is £25. I have got both the bag and these heels to complete my Christmas party look. I'm not the type of person who wears heels all the time and I very rarely stray away from my Kurt Geiger's on a night out, however, who doesn't like to try something a little different.

Lavish Alice - £95

Recently a lot of tuxedo style dresses have been coming out. I think these are a great look and come in a range of styles. Navy isn't really a colour I often wear, but my dress for this year is infact just that. If (like me) you do wear a lot of black it's a good alternative while staying in your comfort zone. Just because it's Chrsitmas  doesn't mean you have to go out in the brightest colours especially if it's not something you'd normally wear.

Whistles - £169

I thought I needed to add something that is a little pricier, as I will be lucky enough to be wearing a Whistles dress this year!

I love this and I think with the colour it's the perfect festive dress. The skirt on this dress is so flattering and I even have this style in my own wardrobe.

Topshop - £65

More pink, great style and luxury material, need I say more? Also great for anyone who wants to keep areas like the arms covered but it does still reveal a bit of skin with the open section at the back.

River Island - £68

Now I know, these aren't going to be everyone's cup of tea, however, for those of you who do love a bit of embellishment, look how pretty these are! With them being velvet I personally think they are very seasonal so you best get them on now to get your money's worth!

Pretty Little Thing - Blazer £18 - Trousers £12

With it being a Christmas party wear post I had to feature something red! Red isn't really my colour but I love the idea of wearing a suit! I think this outfit is the best value for money at only £30 all together.

Colour blocking outfits not really your thing? You can buy these pieces separate so all you have to do is pick the item you want!

LOTD - £18

And to finish off, the must have marble box clutch bag. Like many people, marble is a favourite of mine and this is a great subtle way of adding it to your finishing look.

A great match for almost any party outfit!

It's officially getting close to my most favourite time of the year! I'd love to hear where you're all going for you Christmas do's and most importantly, what are you wearing?!  

Top 5 Advent Calendars

The past couple of Christmas' everyone has gone mad for advent calendars!

Gone are the days where chocolate countdowns are the most exciting thing on a morning in December. Now you name it, and you can probably find an advent calendar which contains it. From prosecco to beauty products, the market has grown so much there is something for everyone.

I have pulled together a few of my favourite calendars which are out now, so no matter what your budget you can be prepared for December 1st.

Not on the High Street

Not on the High Street - £144.95

Prosecco-ho-ho. You name your favourite beverage and let's face it, this year you'll probably be about to find it in a calendar! Not on the High Street are so great for unique ideas and this advent calendar just proves it.

I'm the type of person who in December the first thing I do when I get up is raid the calendar. However, if yours does contain alcohol this isn't something I would recommend. Let's wait til lunchtime at least! Prosecco not your drink of choice? Don't worry Not on the High Street have also got 24 windows for craft beer; gin and even tea lovers!

Lindt

Lindt - £10

Granted some of the calendars that are out are a bit expensive and might not be everyone's cup of tea. 

Personally, I love a traditional chocolate one and can you really find anything better than Lindt?!

Last year my Mum did extremely well with her advent calendar selection, so no pressure on her but she's got standards to keep high!

This year this there are a few Lindt to pick from and can be bought for a good price at most super markets so make sure you don't miss out!

Yankee Candle

Yankee Candle - £34.99 

I love a Yankee Candle, and my Christmas Memories one has been lit a fair few times this year!

This calendar has 24 doors and gives you a chance to smell this year's Christmas themed fragrances. A perfect, pre Christmas gift for any candle lover, or even if you want to treat yourself and home!

OPI

OPI - £44.96

I love OPI. As stated in my previous post, this is a brand that yes, maybe a little more expensive but you absolutely get your money's worth!

The shades which can be seen are perfect for winter and very seasonal with all the reds!

Luckily for you guys this calendar is currently on offer and you can save £24.99! These are mini bottles, however there are 25 of them so they should last you a while!

John Lewis Beauty

John Lewis Beauty - £149

This is another pricey one, however I couldn't help myself and had to feature a big beauty one!

I think it's a great idea when big stores have something like this on offer. With a selection of different brands, it gives you a chance to try new things, alongside some of your usual favourites.

It is expensive at £149, however the contents are worth £300 so think of it as half price!

Do you have a favourite advent calendar? Let me know as I'd love to to hear from you and find out what's behind your calendar's doors!