Tag: Style

Planning a Capsule Wardrobe

I’m currently in the process of downsizing my wardrobe… I say this but my actual wardrobe storage space is due to expand as my our plan for one of the rooms in mine and my boyfriend’s new house is to create a closet space (or walk in wardrobe if you like). This is an absolute girlhood dream come true for me, having a room dedicated to clothes! However, since starting to plan the space and trying to figure out what I want to do with it, I’ve realized one thing I don’t envisage is clutter.

For as long as I can remember I’ve loved to shop and accumulating new things is something I’m very good at. What I’ve noticed recently though is that quantity over quality is not always the best thing and I’m starting to re-evaluate my shopping habits and want to really think about the items that I buy and own. I think that moving to a new house is forcing me to think about the items that I really value and want to bring into a newly refurbished and uncluttered space.

I’ve been toying with the idea of creating a capsule wardrobe. This is something that’s still very new to me and people who know me would laugh at the thought of me surviving with a minimal amount of items in my wardrobe (hello, self confessed shopping addict over here). However it’s just something I feel I should at least think about. I’m already beginning my much needed clothing/shoe/accessory clear out and so whilst browsing online the other day, I thought I’d put together a sample capsule wardrobe that I’d maybe like to create (or take ideas from) for this coming Autumn…

1. Light grey T-Shirt, Topshop Here.
2. Black T-Shirt, Topshop Here.
3. Halter neck crop top, Asos Here.
4. Fred Perry polo shirt, Asos Here.
5. Stripe sweatshirt, Asos Here .
6. Stripe turtleneck, Asos Here.
7. White shirt, Topshop Topshop.
8. Denim shirt, Topshop Here.
9. Fred Perry polo dress, Asos, Here.
10, Stipe bodycon midi dress, River Island at Asos, Here.
11. Black side split dress, Asos, Here.
12. Black A-line mini skirt, Asos, Here.
13. Black midi skirt, Asos, Here.
14. Moto Jamie jeans, Topshop, Here.
15. Moto black Jamie jeans, Topshop, Here.
16. Camel coloured coat, Asos, Here.
17. Tripp NYC leather look biker jacket, Asos, Here.
18. Isle Jacobsen rain man, Coggles, Here.
19. Black knit cardigan, Asos, Here.
20. Oversized square scarf, Asos, Here.
21. McQ Alexander McQueen Chelsea boots, Coggles, Here.
22. Clarks burgundy tassel loafers, Here.
23. Senso Sara heeled boots, Asps, Here .
24. Vans croc slip on trainees, Asos, Here.
25. Dr Martens, Coggles, Here.
26. Purified woven block heels, Coggles, Here
27. Black heels, Office, Here.
28. Ballet pumps, Asos, Here.
29. Aspinal of London, My Bag, Here.
30. Eastpak black leather backpack, Asos, Here.

I feel that the more I plan, the more I’m starting to think seriously about permanently downsizing my wardrobe, it would certainly help me a lot when getting dressed in the morning.

Have you ever thought about creating a capsule wardrobe for each season? What are some pieces that you would include?

Samio x

August 21, 2015
All Black Attire & Nike Air Max

There once was a time when you had to pick style or comfort and rarely did the two things go hand in hand. I also remember a point in my life when I wouldn’t allow myself to wear anything but heels (I actually don’t know how I coped looking back) but now I feel a lot more relaxed about being, well, relaxed. It’s probably partly got something to do with the current trends and the fact that the more casual look is currently being embraced.

For a while I’ve been seeing trainers becoming a part of everyday outfits. At first I wasn’t quite sure if it was for me but then when you’ve endured many days in the likes of London, running round to castings all day, you see why people have adopted this trend and suddenly you want to jump on the band wagon.

Now I finally own a pair of trainers (that aren’t just my gym ones) and I cannot stop wearing them. I love rocking them with an all black look and I feel that wearing them with a more fitted jacket, like this sleeveless blazer I picked up recently in Primark, gives them a smarter edge.

These trainers make the perfect footwear for day around the city and they kept me comfortable last Sunday when I wore this outfit round Hamburg whilst exploring the city before jetting home.

I can finally say that I have been converted to the ultimate comfort shoes. I’m not about to throw away all of my heels just yet but I’ll be keeping my trainers to hand for those for those days when I’m doing lots of walking, that’s for sure!

What I Wore/Shop The Look
Jeans – Asos
Tank top – Primark in store only (Similar here)
Sleeveless Blazer – Primark in store only (Similar here)
Bag – H&M
Trainers – Nike Air Max

Samio x

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June 26, 2015
Matching Florals -Tie Top & Mini Skirt

I’m loving how more and more bright colours and pretty summer prints have now worked their way back into my wardrobe. We’re not doing too badly, weather wise here in England and other than the expected odd few rainy days, the daily forcast had been pretty decent. This has meant being finally able to wear short skirts for the first time, in what feels like forever and being able to go bare legged too. Not to mention being able to wear sandals again!

This cute matching floral two piece was a recent purchase from H&M. They actually did this set in different prints and colours. Resisting the temptation to buy every set available, I went for this one, as I love the gorgeous summery print and the pop of bright pink on the flowers.

My sandals are from Clarks and I’m pretty much in love with them. I always struggle finding sandals that I like and that feel comfortable and for me these tick all the boxes. The fact that they are white means that they go with pretty much anything and I love how the silver sole makes them stand out.

What items of clothing do you love wearing when it’s Spring/Summer?

Samio x

May 15, 2015
Major Wardrobe Clear Out & Some Items I Won’t Be Getting Rid Of

Today is the start of a massive wardrobe clear out for me (she says, sat typing on her blog instead of doing what she actually should – the clear out). It’s been long overdue and as I have much of the day free today, I thought that I best go ahead and do it. It’s going to be an arduous task but as each of the items in my wardrobe are at least triple hung, the rail is starting to bend and I’m running out of shelf and draw (and loft!) space, I know it cannot be put off any longer!

It’s time for me to majorly downsize and start afresh but there are some items of clothing that I shan’t be getting rid of, including this here outfit.

I bought these high waisted denim shorts only a couple of months ago from Primark. It’s been years since I bought denim from Primark but after trying on these I was pleasantly surprised and since purchasing I have been wearing them loads. This fit isn’t perfect on me but I think this is more due to my body shape as opposed to the cut, as I have a small waist and larger bottom but it’s nothing that a good old belt can’t solve. So I’ve teamed them with this brown chunky vintage waist belt that I love.

On the top half, another basic, yet wardrobe staple: The tank top, also purchased from Primark. I have loads of these and they happen to be multi purpose tops for me, whether it’s day to day, for bed or for the gym, I couldn’t go without my black tank tops. So I’ll be keeping those.

The shall is a fairly new-ish purchase. It’s by Glamorous but I actually purchased it from TUK (I think it’s called) in The Northern Quarter for just £10 on sale. I love it because it looks so cute thrown with jeans and a vest and instantly livens up an outfit. So I’ll be keeping key pieces like this, that are unique and add a bit of something to an otherwise plain outfit. Unless of course I’ve had it forever and its time in my wardrobe is done.

Finally my Underground wedge creepers. Obviously I’ll be keeping these as they are my wedge of choice when it comes to comfort and they have served me well over the past three years of ownership. That’s right, three years and they are still going strong. They were definitely a good investment. Some may say three years is too long and it’s time to get red (and I would agree with most things) but no, na ah, not going to happen. Theses babies are here to stay.

Anyway, enough rambling from me. Time for me to begin my massive clear out. Wish me luck!

Samio x

March 26, 2015
Vintage Polka Dot Dress & The Pink Welted Sole Dr Martens

I had had my eye on these pink welted sole Dr Martens for quite some time and finally, a few weeks ago I decided to just go for it and make the purchase. I had loved them from when I first saw them but it had took me some time to decide if I’d actually wear them and if they’d go with any of my outfits. It turns out since buying them, that yes, they do go with loads and I’ve almost not stopped wearing them!

The bouncing soles make them so comfortable to wear and walk around in and the colour is my favourite shade of pink. The are also made in England, which I thought was pretty cool (as most Dr Martens aren’t these days).

Like I say, since purchasing them, I’ve almost been living in them, so it was definitely worth the investment. Most days I’ve been throwing them on with skinny jeans but yesterday, as the sun was shining, I thought I’d wear them with one of my old vintage polka dot dresses and team it up with a matching pink belt. So you’ll probably be seeing a lot more of these on my outfit post, as I think they are my new favourite comfy shoes.

How about you guys, do you have a favourite pair of shoes that you love to wear with everything?

What I wore:
Dress – Vintage
Belt – Primark
Shoes – Dr Martens

Samio x

March 24, 2015
80s Fashion Friday

Friday was the first day that actually felt like summer might be coming after what has felt like the longest winter ever. Blue skies and not a rain cloud in sight meant I was able to ‘de-layer’. Although it wasn’t time to get out the shorts or crop top just yet, it was nice to be able to ditch the big cosy coat for once and not feel the need to be wrapped in a thousand layers.

Late afternoon I met up with my friend Laura and we went for pizza and wine at Dry Bar before I met up with some other friends to head to The Smiths Disco later that evening.

I wanted to wear something that I could wear from evening through to the night, so I went for blue high waisted trousers and a silky wrap peplum top to dress it up a bit. I’ve had the vintgae top for ages but this is the first time I wore it. I’m guessing it’s from the 80’s and I love how it looks good worn either open as a jacket or fastened as a top. I think I’ll be pulling this one out a lot more now that I’ve finally gotten round to wearing it.

What I wore:
Top – Vintage
Navy high waisted trousers – H&M
Belt – Vintage
Shoes – River Island
Hoop earrings – Topshop
Bag – zara

Samio x

March 7, 2015
Clarks Hotel Bustle Outfit Lookbook

Recently I did my first video look book for my blog. It was rather unplanned but we decided to get some video clips whilst taking some recent outfit shots and so here’s how it turned out.

I hope you enjoy it and if you do, please do give it a like and don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube for more videos.

http://youtu.be/D5rUEiEagAk

Samio x

March 5, 2015
Fred Perry Polo Shirt & Polka Dots

On Friday I met up with my friend Dale and we headed for lunch before I helped him spend some money clothes shopping (my speciality). For lunch we had planned on burgers but after a last minute change of plan we opted for Zizzi. I went for the Pulled Pork Rustica pizza while Dale opted for a calzone. As delicious as our dishes sounded and looked, we were both pretty disappointed with our meals. There was nothing wrong with them as such, we just found that they were both pretty bland for our pallets. I’d only been to Zizi once prior to this occasion and had gone for the calzone containing meatballs, which I think I enjoyed. I guess it was just a case of wrong choice for both of us on this occasion.

To make up for our failed lunch however, we later headed to the Northern Quarter for some tea and cake and both opted for a slice of carrot cake each and traditional English tea. I can’t remember the name of the cafe we went in but it’s on Oldham Street right next to Afflecks Palace and I walk past it all the time but this is the first time I popped in. Anyway, it cost only £3.50 for a tea and a slice of cake, which is pretty good and the carrot cake was really tasty too.

Later we saw street style blogger The Mancorialist and got a few snaps. I’ve been photographed by The Mancorialist a number of times and always like the cool and quirky street style shots. You can check out The Mancorialist here.

Here’s a shot of Dale captured by The Mancorialist.

What I wore:
Polo shirt – Fred Perry
Skirt – Asos (last summer)
Shoes – Office

Samio x

March 4, 2015
Manchester Blog Meetup

On Saturday, my boyfriend Damien and I were heading into town to the Northern Quarter for a spot of lunch and a few drinks. It was on our way into the centre that I decided to have a quick scroll through my Twitter feed and as I did I spotted that there was a Manchester blog meetup taking place in the Northern Quarter that afternoon. I instantly wanted to get involved and so I sent a tweet to Jasmin, who had organised the meet up and asked where it would be as I was keen to pop along. It was perfect timing too and after quickly nipping to the shops, Damien and I headed to kosmonaut, where the meetup was taking place.

Luckily for Damien, Jasmin, who had travelled up from London, had brought her boyfriend, Paul along too and so it wasn’t long before the pair of them were enjoying a pint each and chatting about ‘guys stuff’.

It was my first bloggers meet up and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was so nice to chat to many other like minded bloggers and of course exchange blogs with one another (I always love finding new ones to read). The turn out was really good which was of course great but it was a shame that I didn’t get chance to chat to everyone there, as there were so many of us. It was a great afternoon though and I got to meet a lovely mixed bunch of beauty, fashion and lifestyle bloggers.

This is some of us not long before we left (many had already just gone) but here are some of the lovely ladies I got to chat to.

Damien and Paul sat enjoying their pints.

Lots of chatting and several glasses of wine later, we wrapped things up at the bloggers meet up and after everyone headed their separate ways, Damien and I went to Hold Fast Bar for another drink. As impromptu as it was, we both really enjoyed the meet up and had a really good afternoon. I always enjoy meeting new people and sharing interests, I think I’ll have to make it to another meet up again soon.

What I wore:
Cardigan – Forever 21
Vest – Primark
Denim shorts – Primark
Necklace – H&M
Belt – Asos
Bag – Aldo
Boots – H&M (Similar here)

Samio x

March 2, 2015
The Pink Vintage Shirt

Today has been a delightful day, it’s been a delightful weekend in fact and now I can’t believe that it is March already! It feels like only the other day that I was writing my first blog post of the year on the first day of January. Anyway, here we are and I’m pleased to be slowly working outfit posts back onto my blog. Brighter days and slightly better weather mean I’m getting more opportunities to get some of my outfits snapped. Today was no exception and we got these shots done literally seconds before it began to pour it down. Despite the wet weather, it was certainly not putting a dampener on my day as I’d met up with one of my best friend’s, Lydia and her mother Hazel, as we headed to Frurt to attend their Barakah Food Aid event.

We spent the afternoon sipping coffee, sampling tasty cake and of course frozen yoghurt. Lydia and I tried our first taste of kanafeh, which is a cheese pastry soaked in sweet sugar based syrup. It was unusual, yet enjoyable nonetheless. We also enjoyed a delicious Nutella hot chocolate each, which of course was amazing! It was certainly a sugar filled afternoon and an enjoyable one at that.

What I wore:
Shirt – Vintage
Skirt – H&M
Belt – Primark
Necklace – Ebay
Shoes – Office

Samio x

March 1, 2015