Tag: Topshop

Personal Shopping & A Festive Party Outfit

On Tuesday I was invited into Manchester Arndale’s TopShop store for my first ever Personal Shopping Experience and my quest was to find a festive party wear outfit. As part of the personal shopping experience I had the luxury of my own private changing room and my personal shopper, Hannah, was on hand to show me all the jazziest and new in party wear pieces, which definitely took the hassle out of the shopping experience.

Topshop really do have a party wear look for every occasion and so I was spoilt for choice. You know I like my understated outfits but this time, rather than play it safe, I really wanted to jazz things up a little for the festive season. So whilst sticking to a quite simple base outfit, I decided to go for something a bit different by glamming up the look with a very bold (yet might I add fabulous), emerald green leopard print faux fur coat. I don’t think you can get much jazzier than that!

The coat was a piece that Hannah had actually picked out and it had been hung on my rail when I arrived at my appointment. Had I of seen the coat whilst browsing around in store, I admit I probably would have walked straight past it with my bikers on in search for something simpler, but as Hannah presented it to me styled with a selection of outfits, I instantly took a shine to it. I began to see a number of styling opportunities with the coat piece, both dressy and casual, and so before I knew it I was swanning around my changing room in it, quickly deciding that I had to have it!

Another piece in my outfit that I absolutely feel for were these fabulous boots. Ahhh, look at them. I’d actually spotted them earlier whilst browsing around in store and after I mentioned them to Hannah, she kindly went and grabbed them for me in my size and brought them to my changing room. Not only did they fit perfectly (and look amazing) but they actually felt really comfortable too, which I think is quite important when heading out to party!

No party wear look of mine could be complete without a bit of lipstick and yes I was enticed by Topshop’s amazing beauty selection. I had to stop myself from going for five different lipstick shades and managed to narrow it down to just one. I went for a beautiful brown shade called Muse and then I spotted their beautiful Chameleon Glow eye shadows. Just when I thought I didn’t need another eyeshadow in my life, one jumped out at me that was like nothing else I owned. It was the shade called Shuffle The Cards and it has a beautiful rose gold two tone effect that I instantly fell in love with.

I left my personal shopping appointment feeling my shopping trip had been a success. It’s not often I go into a store and am able to find a full outfit I love all in one place. The best part about the Topshop Personal Shopping is that it’s completely complimentary! So if you’re in need of a wardrobe revamp or just a quick fashion fix, it’s the perfect place to go to get style advice and help you shop with ease. I’d definitely recommend it and it’s available in selected flagship stores, you can book an appointment here and if you’re planning to book in Manchester I definitely recommend Hannah Twist who was my personal shopper on the day.

Also, if you are Manchester based, then you should check out the Get Party Ready weekend, which is taking place on the 17th and 18th December in Manchester Arndale’s Topshop store. Customers who spend £40 in store that weekend will be eligible to receive a complimentary express gel manicure, mini party makeover! Th

Samio x

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This post was sponsored by Topshop, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

December 15, 2016
Not So Summery, Summer Days

Hello August, you came around fast! Is it just me or are the months actually flying by? So much so that we’ve approached the last full month of summer and I’m yet to buy any summer clothes…What is all that about!?

Clearing out my wardrobe did give me the opportunity to retrieve ‘lost’, barely worn summer type pieces, like this long, white, sleeveless roll neck from Free People, however I’m still yet to wear an actual summer dress this season!

Jeans have been my go to this summer, as bar the few super sunny days that we have had, the UK has been a bit of a let down weather wise. I guess I can’t complain, as overall the weather here hasn’t been horrendous, it just hasn’t been consistently amazing either, which is something I should be used to by now.

I guess you can’t go wrong with denim though and when you opt for a light blue shade of denim, like with these Topshop skinny jeans, it instantly gives a more summery vibe to your outfit…Teamed with these faux suede heeled sandals from Asos, I think I’ve found the perfect combination for those not so summery, summer days.

Jeans – Topshop (similar here) | Top – Free People (similar here) | Bag – Matt & Nat | Heels – Asos

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Samio x

August 1, 2016
A Slow Start To Summer

Hello summer, hello…winter boots!? Okay so summer is finally here, it’s official but unfortunately the weather here in the UK still has quite a bit of catching up to do. I didn’t quite expect to be pulling out a pair of my black winter boots in the middle of June but a pro to the weather situation is that it’s buying me a little more time whilst I figure out exactly which summer pieces I’d like to add to my wardrobe.

Since downsizing my wardrobe quite considerably over these past few months, I’m finding it hard to now let new pieces in. I feel like I’ve tried on so many clothes and made so many summer orders, all of which haven’t been right or I have sent back, as I’m finding it hard to buy or keep things unless I absolutely love them. I’m guessing this can only be a good thing but at the same time I’m finding it harder than I had expected to transition my wardrobe for summer…In the mean time though I’ll continue to mix and match my current pieces, whilst still on the hunt for a few of those all important summer essential, because when the sun does finally decide to show its face, I plan to be ready!

Jeans – Topshop | Denim jacket – Pieces | T-shirt – (Similar here) | Skinny Scarf – Topshop, old (Similar here) | Boots – Office | Bag – Matt & Nat (in gravel)

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Samio x

June 22, 2016
Triple Denim

I’m currently loving denim, in fact, for the most part of this year it’s been a re-occurring theme in the majority of my outfits. But then denim does go with just about anything right?

Again, another very ‘mix & match’ denim piece has been added to my wardrobe and it’s this black denim Pieces jacket from online boutique Dizen. When asked if I’d like to pick out one of their items, I was instantly drawn to this denim jacket, as I’d been on the hunt for a black one for a while. It’s one of those easy to style pieces and as it’s black, it means it’s very versatile when wearing it with other shades of denim.

I guess you could call this a super safe way to wear triple denim (that’s right, not double but triple), as I went for black skinny jeans, my new denim jacket and I added an extra layer by wearing my old cropped washed denim jacket underneath. The result is something that isn’t as scary as it sounds and the layering aspect adds a nice touch whilst actually being rather practical with the current weather here in England.

Black denim Jacket – Dizen | Cropped Denim Jacket – Similar Here | Boyfriend Shirt – Gap (old), Similar Here | Skinny Jeans – Topshop | Backpack – Zara (old), Similar Here | Trainers – Converse

Samio x

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

May 3, 2016
White Reebok Classics

I’ll be completely honest, if you would have told me a few month ago that I’d be rocking a pair of Reebok Classics, I would have said that it was highly doubtful. As silly as it sounds, something was somewhat ingrained in me from high school that Reebok wasn’t ‘cool’ and although I care less about my peer’s style opinions these days, or the opinion of my 14 year old self for that matter, I still guess I was still put off by the idea of wearing a pair of Reebok Classics…It just shows how fashions change and personal opinions and style changes with it.

My boyfriend had mentioned wanting a pair of white Reebok Classics (something which I previously hadn’t been keen on) and then much to his luck, we were invited along to a Kendrick Lamar gig put on by Reebok, where on arrival everyone there was given a pair of white Reebok Classic trainers. Never one to be a party pooper, I happily traded in my shoes (which were kept safe in a cloak room during the gig) for these fresh white Reebok Classics. After putting them on for the first time, my opinion instantly changed. I couldn’t deny that these trainers were comfortable and actually looked kind of cute with my all black attire that I was wearing on the night. Several weeks later and what can I say, I’ve been converted and I now I think that Reebok Classics are pretty cool.

Here I decided to go for a super casual look with my black skinny jeans, biker jacket and pale pink Tee. I’ve never braved all white trainers before but I love the way they look and I think these ones will be great for Spring/Summer.

Trainers – Reebok Classic | T-shirt – Asos | Cross Body Bag – Similar Here | Biker Jacket – Similar Here

Samio x

April 1, 2016
Black Biker Jacket & Skinny Jeans

The older I get, the more I realise that it’s some of the simplest things that make me the happiest, like spending time with loved ones and enjoying every good moment (however small), or on this particular occasion, having an afternoon with a couple of my besties whilst chatting away over cups of tea and coffee…

The sun was shining for once in Manchester (or there were blue skies at least) and although maybe a little premature, I decided to brave it with a slightly less layered outfit, having only my faux fur scarf for added warmth. I have to admit, it was a little breezy on the ankles wearing cropped skinnies and my favourite Clarks loafers but it felt nice to get out of boots and opt for something a little different. I can now confirm that spring isn’t here just yet and it may not quite be time to ditch the layers but the blue skies are certainly getting me excited for longer days and milder months. Yes to more daylight!

Samio x

February 10, 2016
Clarks Anniston Vale Outfit – Competition

Recently I’ve been talking a lot about how I’ve been wanting to downsize my wardrobe and invest in good quality items that I can get plenty of wear out of – less is more as they say.

These jeans were a recent purchase and so far I’ve been getting plenty of wear out of them but the star of the show with this outfit were definitely my Clarks Anniston Vale loafers.

I’m no stranger to Clarks shoes and over this past year I’ve accumulated a number of different styles, each which I am glad to say I’ve been getting plenty of wear out of. I think there is often a misconception with Clarks, as many people are often surprised after they compliment my shoes and I tell them where they are from. Yes Clarks are known for their comfort and quality but they should be known for their style too. Whoever said you can’t have style and comfort.

I’d been eyeing up these particular loafers since I spotted them at Clarks A/W press day earlier this year. I’d spotted them in black and a gorgeous burgundy shade and knew I’d have to have a pair. I was over the moon when I was given the opportunity not to only have a pair but to choose my own unique colourway for them too! I’d spotted the brushed animal print on another pair of shoes, so chose that to go on the top part and there’s something so classic about patent black, so that made up my mind for the rest of the shoe. I excitedly ripped open the box when they arrived and I could not be more pleased with them.

What I wore:
Shirt – Zara (similar here)
Jeans – Topshop
Shoes – Clarks Anniston Vale loafers

Win a £200 Clarks Voucher

Clarks have been even more amazing and given me the opportunity to spread the shoe love with you guys by giving you the opportunity to win £200 in Clarks Vouchers! All you have to do to enter this fabulous competition is follow both me and Clarks on Instagram – @clarksshoes and @samiorenelda – Then comment below on this blog post with your Instagram name to let me know you’ve entered. The competition ends at midnight on Friday 16th October and the winner will be selected at random and announced on my Instagram on Saturday 17th. This competition is open to UK residents only. Good luck!

Samio x

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

Check out my other outfit post featuring some of my favourite Clarks shoes:
Clarks X Orla Kiely
Boyfriend Jeans & Hotel Bustle
Matching Florals

October 6, 2015
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
Flashbacks of The Last Summer…

I woke up yesterday morning and it was snowing… SNOWING! Now I’m not complaining, no wait a minute, I am. Snow is fabulous, it’s delightful, it’s absolutely fantastically magical when it comes along before Christmas, or Christmas Day, even better! However, two and a half weeks after, when the tree is down and Santa has gone home, I’m over it. I’m sick of being cold and I certainly don’t want to see snow. Now I shouldn’t be moaning as I really do enjoy the different seasons and I’m sure if I lived with one consistent weather type I’d miss it but I blame the shops and Christmas cards for my lack of January weather appreciation. I blame Christmas cards because the pictures always portray snow laden valleys and pretty icicles, which now immediately makes me associate cold weather and frost with Christmas time and the shops are worse because they decide to get rid of all the winter stock at the coldest time of the year and start stocking in spring/summer clothes and bikinis. Now I don’t know about you but that really messes my head up and it makes my need for spring/summer days even more immidiate.

With all this in my mind, I was clearing through some of the stuff on my hard drive the other day when I stumbled across some unused outfit shots from last August. It reminded me how nice it is to be able to wear so few layers. So now I thought I’d finally share this forgotten outfit post on my blog, as a reminder that it was warm once and it will eventually be beautiful spring/summer once again. And to all of you who live in countries where it is warm right now, I’m not jealous one bit. Of course I’m not.

What I wore:
Kimono – Zara
Vest – Forever 21
Jeans – Topshop
Sandals – River Island
Backpack – River Island

Samio x

January 15, 2015
Bomber Jacket & Lace-Up Boots OOTD

It’s that time of the year when comfort and warmth always takes priority. I love living in the UK but as others who live here will know, this time of the year is when the weather is at its harshest. It’s for this reason that I decided to invest in some super practical boots. This is something I’ve been pretty much averse to in the past, who wants to spend money on boring practical clothing/shoes, really? Not me that’s for sure. Anyway it was at the start of December that I spotted these boots in Topshop. Similar to Dr Martens but for a half the price and with an extra 30% off at the time, I thought it was about time I invested in some decent winter boots. I’ve actually found plenty of use for them since so it was probably a good job I decided to make the purchase. They are now in the sale and for a decent pair of real leather boots, they make a great bargain.

The bomber jacket was also a purchase from the end of last year (it feels strange saying that already about 2014). I actually bought the bomber jacket off Asos but it’s from New Look. Again I’ve been able to wear this jacket a lot, as it goes with loads of stuff and it’s easy to just throw on with a pair of jeans. It appears to no longer be in stock at New Look but I found they had a similar one online and I’ve since seen a couple of nice bombers in Zara as well. I like this style of bomber jacket, as it’s quilted so it actually makes it pretty warm.

What I wore:
Bomber jacket – New Look (Similar here)
Top – H&M
Skirt – H&M
Bag – River Island (similar here)
Boots – Topshop

Samio x

January 4, 2015