My Savvy Spring Summer Style

Spring seriously dragged it's heels.  According to the Met Office it's been the UK's coldest Spring in 50 years (!), so it's been a challenge knowing what seasonal clothes to put away and which to begin wearing.  Now we've stepped into June (okay, which means it's technically now Summer...) we can but hope for some sunnier weather.  With this spirit in mind, I've been gearing up my lighter wardrobe and embracing the new season trends, particularly the soft pastel hues that have us reminiscing melted ice creams and sugar dusted sweets.  From baby blue to primrose yellow, it's all about the pastel.

I'm not just about the trend, though.  Savvy buying is in my DNA and I've been stalking the web and high street for on trend bargains that'll see me through the next few seasons and satisfy my thrifty conscience.  I know I'm not alone with my bargain hunting way of life, but even if you're not, I hope I can offer some food for thought with what you can achieve from a bit of leg work and clever shopping.

This look sums up my perfect summery style: casual, cute and feminine.

Me with a couple of guinea pigs.  Ain't that a surprise!

This entire outfit (along with additional accessories) was purchased using discounts, loyalty card bonuses and good old shop offers.  Nothing was paid full price for, which, if like me, you'll very much like the sound of.  This is how I did it:

ASOS Lilac Satchel Bag with scallop trim and buckles

20% off code & 500 bonus points for Advantage Card from Boots Treat Street

Full Price £22.00.  I paid £17.60

Saving: £4.40 + £5 earning

H&M Conscious Collection Floral Canvas Shoes

10% off code, FREE delivery & £5 off

Full Price £7.99.  I paid £2.19

Saving: £5.80

H&M 'Hello Darling' Slogan Tee

Ebay purchase

Full Price £7.99  I paid £1.70  (£3.20 inc. delivery)

Saving: £6.29





Primark Pleated Maxi Skirt
Ebay purchase
Full Price £12  I Paid £3.50  (£5.50 inc. delivery)
Saving: £8.50

Maybelline Forever Strong Pro Nail Polish - 'Lilac Charm'

Poundland

RRP £4.09  I paid £1

Saving £3.09

Rimmel Lycra Pro Nail Polish - 'Peppermint' & 'Aqua Cool'

Half Price at Morrisons.

Full Price £4.59 each.  I paid £2.29 each

Saving: £2.39 each

Have you made any serious savings on your Spring/Summer Style wardrobe?  Have any tips for budget fashion buying?

Becky x

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Satchels Were Made For Me

I love bags and always carry one with me. I feel naked without one.  Having a bag was a natural progression from having my school bag growing up so when I was finished with school I moved onto an 'essentials' bag.  There's always so much I need with me such as my purse, phone, diary and not least a choice of lipbalms.

In a multitude of colours and varying styles I've always had at least one bag on the go.  I would go as far as saying my bag is a part of me, what it looks like reflects everything about me; my personality, my needs, and if my bag is shabby I too feel shabby.  Bags are a hugely important extension of me, not just an accessory, so when I tire of my bag and feel the need for a new one I take my time to make sure I get from it all I want and expect.

A typical shoulder bag has generally been my go to style for it's ease of transportation.  Grab bags, although often pretty and chic quickly become a nuisance, especially when two hands are not enough.  A style that has increasingly made an appearance in my bag wardrobe is the across body bag and, of late, the revival of the satchel.  And I have to say, the satchel is king of all bags.

Mulberry 'Alexa' - the connoisseur's choice of satchel

Satchels were once seen as the industrial behemoth used only for school books but in the last few years they've enjoyed a resurgence that's increased their popularity status as arm candy of choice on the shoulder of many a style icon.  As a thriver of colour, like a moth to a flame, my interest in satchels grew as beautiful shades and vintage patterns emerged onto the scene.  A staple shape + colour meant the satchel was redefined.

Nica Play satchel - a fresh take on old

So why do I like a satchel?  They're uncomplicated, solid, functional and comfy.  Oh yes, comfort plays a hugely important role in the bag.  If I'm going to carry half my life around with me I don't want it to be a drag, and I equally want it to be accessible.  I've realised a regular bag requires taking off and plonking on a counter or chair which isn't always convenient.  A bag at the end of a long strap and/or across your front makes life so easy and easy works for me every time.

Seeing as we're talking bags an' all I may as well introduce you to my newbie; my spring pastel trend embracing pale blue ASOS satchel.  Isn't she a pretty?!

ASOS light blue satchel - mine!

Yes, this is my new favourite bag. Until the next itch, of course...

Becky x

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