Mixing An Old Favourite With The New

Leopard Print Coat: H&M
Red Knitted Turtleneck Jumper: H&M*
Castile Pencil Straight Leg Jeans: ASOS
Kendall Suede Taupe Loafers: Topshop

Hold the phone, an outfit of the day where I'm not wearing head to toe Topshop, no I can't quite believe it either. After weeks of scouring the shops for all of the knitwear I'm thrilled to have finally found some winners from high street stalwart H&M. Now I hate to use the term killing it 'cos I say it far too often but H&M certainly are and their knitwear is exceptional, especially for the price so it'll come as no surprise when I say how much I adore this turtleneck. The colour brings the loveliest flush of colour to my cheeks, the fit has that perfect borrowed from the husband vibe and the cotton blend means you don't royally overheat when you pop a thermal underneath. Usually I shop H&M online but I actually picked this turtleneck up and a few other pieces (stay tuned) from The Broadway in Bradford who kindly got in touch and asked me to fill my Autumn Winter boots with a rather handy gift card. The shopping centre is perfectly formed making it ideal for those wanting to spend with a toddler in tow - it's incredibly easy to navigate and did I mention the super sweet train which runs around? So cute.

While we're on the subject of favourites I've got to mention these straight leg jeans. ASOS has never been somewhere I've shopped for denim but after buying these I'm starting to wonder why, not only are they incredibly affordable but they fit well and feel very current - I literally haven't stopped reaching for these blue eyed wonders since I bought them. My final new arrival are these taupe loafers which I fell head over heels for as soon as I saw them, thanks to the suede make up they fit like a glove whilst giving a nod to Gucci. Pulling my look together is an old favourite, a leopard print coat. For me leopard print is a fail safe every Autumn Winter, a classic if you will so I doubt I'll tire of pulling this cover up out of my wardrobe and letting it bring some necessary pizzazz to a simple everyday look. I actually bought this coat two years ago (and blogged about it here) but if you fancy your own slice of leopard print action then hit the high street pronto - Topshop, River Island and ASOS all have grand versions.

I actually wore this look for what felt like the worlds longest Sunday thanks to Sadie waking up at an hour that Sundays should only see in the pm format. Even though the day was full of rain we managed to turn it around by going out for brunch at new favourite Show Me Joni and in the evening I finally got to see Girl On The Train with the girls which I found a tad disappointing as a lover of the book. Tell me what you thought if you've seen it?

What are your thoughts on leopard print? Do you rate H&M as much as me?

*Bought with a gift card gifted to me by The Broadway.

Autumnal Wardrobe Wishing

Velvet Trousers / White Leather Gazelles / Contour Knit / Pleat Trousers / Daisy Dress / Gold Ballerinas / Leopard Ballerinas / Wool Cardigan / Black Loafers

When it comes to my wardrobe I've never been much of a planner, I've always been the girl who picks up pieces as soon as I see them to later end up with tops and dresses that only see the light of day a handful of times. Fast forward a pregnancy, the arrival of Sadie and some serious hard work shifting my baby weight and you have a changed woman, well almost. While I'm still into picking up a different less wearable piece now and again (they don't call me the magpie for nothing) I'm now a lot more considerate in my shopping and building the ultimate Autumn capsule wardrobe is getting me excited for rusty leaf lined walks, Strictly Come Dancing and all of the pies.

Now it may seem a little presumptuous planning my seasonal get up in August but everyone knows all the best Autumnal garms start hitting the shops now, you've been warned. For the upcoming season I'm coveting sumptuous fabrics like velvet, wool and sheeny, jewel toned metallics. Denim will still be at the forefront of my wardrobe (the more frayed the hems the better) along with leather because you can't do Autumn without a good leather mini in your arsenal. Another Autumn Winter favourite you're guaranteed to find in my wardrobe is leopard print, I've already got a pair of ankle boots and a wannabe wool coat from years gone by but maybe a pair of ballet flats and a faux fur coat circa Bet Lynch wouldn't go amiss. 

The high street is awash with Gucci inspired shoes and I couldn't be happier as there's at least three pairs I need to add to my shoe collection. As for the perfect transitional look I'm hoping to add this daisy print dress to my wardrobe (fingers crossed it's a baby friendly length) perfect with Gazelles and a leather jacket now and with a chunky knit, black opaques and ankle boots come the first frost.

Have you started planning your new season wardrobe? What do you make of my picks?

Jeans, A Tee And A Baby

Slogan Tee: Whistles exclusively for ASOS
Stepped Hem Orson Jeans: Topshop
Madness Grey Mules: Office
Tortoise Shell Sunglasses: Tom Ford
Sadie is wearing a Baby Boden vest and a H&M all in one

So the title might be a touch misleading because not only is there jeans, a tee and a baby but a balloon too which isn't just an entertainment aid for my thirteen month old but a celebratory birthday gesture for Cagney and Lace as last Saturday C&L turned four. I'm so proud to say I've been blogging for over four years, I can't think of any hobby that's lasted so long except for piano playing but I didn't really enjoy that towards the end (sorry mum and dad!) Cagney and Lace began as a way for me to keep my toe in the fashion arena as I decided to change career path and I love how it's evolved into an almost online diary, albeit a stylish one (I hope?) To celebrate I've given Cagney and Lace some much needed R&R and I hope you'll agree she's looking pretty snazzy and a lot more profesh. I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments...

Celebrations aside lets talk about how I almost had all of my wardrobe on the floor, bed and on top of the floordrobe this morning when I spotted the sun had made another appearance. Now don't get me wrong I love me some sunshine but it's not half difficult to dress for when you have an on the move baby to look after - my once faithful sundresses make me feel incredibly exposed not to mention the body maintenance to wear one of said dresses. After trying on almost my entire clothing stash I resorted to a Cos dress I've had for yonks for an al fresco dining sitch at my parents abode before coming home and changing into jeans and a tee because didn't it get real windy? I've had my Whistles tee for quite a while now but this is its Cagney and Lace debut, as with all Whistles jersey you really do get what you pay for and while I might wear this tee with everything from a leather pinafore dress to grey jogging bottoms its definitely still the softest thing I own.

My jeans and mules are both purchases initiated by Lucy, the personal stylist at Topshop Meadowhall. I don't want to waffle on for too long about this as I'm planning a separate post all about my experience but I will say I'm thrilled to own a pair of stepped hem straight legs. I've been eyeing up this style of jean for so long but hadn't taken the plunge/found a pair that suited me so all hail the joys of someone pulling clothes for you. If you've peeked in the description box you'll notice these mules aren't actually Topshop but are from Office - within five minutes of meeting Lucy I was asking where her shoes were from so you can imagine my delight when I discovered they were just £28.50 on offer and real suede. Two hours later and a quick Office dash with a sleepy Sadie and they were mine. Don't you think they just add a little somethin' somethin' to a simple outfit? I love them. While we're on the subject of newness I ought to mention my recently refreshed locks, I usually hate my hair straight but it's actually growing on me, who'd of thought it? Things are a little shorter and I no longer have ghastly roots so hooray for Jennie at Volt. 

Now I must dash as I'm dying to watch The Hills: That Was Then, This Is Now programme with the one and only LC before I find myself using matchsticks to prop my eyes open. Wish me luck.

Have you been enjoying the sunshine this weekend? Fingers crossed you haven't been struggling with what to wear too.

The Dancing Lady Emoticon Dress

Floral Ruffle Shift Dress: River Island
Vintage Western Sandals: Topshop
Mini Chain Messenger Bag: Zara

Sometimes a dress comes along that makes you shave your legs and forget all about your breastfeeding-in-a-dress woes (it's next to impossible in something like this unless you want to flash everyone) so give a warm welcome to what I hope will be the first of many dresses that make me feel like the dancing lady emoticon. Sure it's not red but it's certainly full of ruffles which are incidentally all over the high street right now, although I must admit I was an earlier adopter picking this dress up in June. Paired simply with man repelling sandals and my favourite Chanel inspired cross body bag this ensemble is perfect for occasions where you've gotta get your shimmy on, in fact this floral print beauty is fast becoming the birthday dress with outings at Sadies first party and my mums al fresco birthday gathering yesterday. After all the upheaval of July Sundays birthday soiree was the perfect anecdote - we enjoyed prosecco and devoured possibly the tastiest and lightest Sunday roast I've enjoyed in a long time. The location? Brocco on the Park, a seriously well done boutique hotel and restaurant which is just a hop, skip and a jump from my abode. If you live in Sheffield I suggest you visit for beyond tasty fodder pronto or if you're visiting the city of steel this would be sleepover perfection. I'd happily stay there myself and I only live up the road which says a lot for this beautifully decorated and welcoming home from home.

Brocco on the Park love aside I'm welcoming August with open arms - a new month signals a fresh start and I'm hoping the eighth month of the year will bring a lot more joy and happiness than the previous. This week is already looking promising with a trip to Yorkshire Sculpture Park on the cards, a long overdue hair appointment (you're incredibly polite if you haven't noticed my root situation) and a Topshop personal shopping appointment because what else do you do when you need a dress fit for God parent duties? I may already have my eye on the Amy ankle boots which give more than just a nod to Givenchy and a pink ruffled sweatshirt (can you tell I like a ruffle?) which has worryingly disappeared from the website, fingers crossed the lovely Lucy can find me one in store.

What are you looking forward to this August? Do you enjoy ruffles as much as me?

Pyjamas As Outerwear

Floral Pyjama Shirt: Topshop
Jamie Skinny Jeans: Topshop
Femi Leather Embellished Sandals: ASOS
Rose Gold Watch: Olivia Burton

This blog post should be titled spot-the-stains-my-baby-gets-on-me but that wouldn't be quite so reader friendly now would it? It's been far too long since I graced my little corner of the Internet and I've honestly missed bringing all the chat to Cagney and Lace but thanks to constant downpours and maybe a smidge of bad planning we are three weeks without content, apologies gang. Yesterday was Sadies first birthday, yes I really did just write those words. Craig and I can't believe that our baby girl has been with us for 365 days. It only feels like two moments ago since we welcomed her into this world and not a day's gone by where it hasn't been amazing, being a mum is the best and most rewarding thing I've ever done and I can't wait to continue watching Sadie grow.

Todays ensemble is the outfit I sported yesterday and the other day to work and when I say other day maybe I mean I wore this two days in a row, tell me I'm not the only one who does this? While I never seem to sport jeans on Cagney and Lace I can confirm they're on my pins nearly everyday especially these Jamie skinnies from Topshop. They fit like a glove, have a high enough rise to hide anything unsightly and they're the perfect ankle grazing leg length. As fast as these come out of the washing machine they're back on my derrière, no lie. While I adore skinny jeans (who doesn't?) I must confess I'm still on the hunt for the perfect straight leg jeans, any suggestions? 

Now you know I can't abstain from making clothing buys ever so it'll come as no surprise that I've added another two pieces to my wardrobe, first up is this pyjama inspired floral blouse. I'll level with you this is actually part of Topshops nightwear collection (I'm not the only one wearing it out) so not only was it a steal at £20 but it's possibly my wardrobe favourite right now. Just look at that print. Finally are these could-be-garish-but-I-absolutely-adore-them nude slider sandals, these would never have been a sandal I'd of chosen on my own but after spotting them on Jens Instagram I knew I had to have them and thanks to ASOS Premier they were with me the next day. These are beyond comfortable and I want to wear them with everything so fingers crossed you won't get sick of seeing them.

What have you been buying over the past few weeks? Do you enjoy the pyjama trend?

Leopard, Leather & Loafers

Leopard Print Coat: H&M
High Neck Striped Jumper: New Look via ASOS
Leather Look Joggers: ASOS
Alexa Satchel Bag: Mulberry
Pink Suede Tasseled Loafers: River Island

I can't quite believe that this time last year I was days away from getting engaged and just a few short weeks from finding out I was pregnant, what a difference a year makes hey? I'm bringing you this post from the comfort of my sofa, hot chocolate with mini marshmallows in hand - things are definitely starting to feel a whole lot more Autumnal around these parts and I ain't complaining. Having Sadie has been one of the best things in my life but forgive me for saying blasted baby weight is not the one - no one tells you that after birth those extra pounds just stick around, I naively thought they'd just drop off. I'm determined to shift the additional weight but for now I'm embracing change and stocking up my wardrobe to suit. So say hello to two new pieces, both from ASOS - the faux leather joggers and high neck striped jumper.

Leather trousers have always been an Autumn Winter staple of mine so when I spotted this relaxed pair with their chic ankle grazing length they just had to be mine. Paired with tasseled loafers and a high neck camel and black striped jumper things have got a real beatnik inspired look and I kinda like it. Mixing patterns in the same colour palette is always a winner so completing the look with my leopard print coat was a no brainer. Holding all my worldly possessions is my Alexa satchel - five years in and my most used designer bag is still going strong, kudos Mulberry. I've also got to give my favourite Autumnal lipstick a huge shout out, Laura Merciers Creme Smooth Lip Colour in Tamara Red. In terms on hygiene it's probably a bit wrong how long I've had this sitting in my make-up drawer but it really is the perfect shade right now and the formula is so moisturising.

This weekend I'm look forward to trying out a few Madeline Shaw recipes and I wouldn't say no to a spot of brunch out and about, it's definitely my favourite meal of the day. Keep your peepers on my Instagram for all of the food snaps.

Do you enjoy mixing prints and textures come Autumn? What are you up to this weekend?

The Wednesday Wishlist #20

It's been a long time since I online window shopped so it feels pretty good to put together this collection of Summer wardrobe pieces that I'm lusting after. With baby Wild due in just four weeks now seems like the perfect time to start dreaming of my mum-to-be capsule collection aka how I spend my maternity leave. The only question left unanswered? When does one make a mammoth online order?  

(L-R) Mango Suede Jacket £89.99 - So I may have already succumbed to this rusty suede jacket, I blame ASOS for the discounts that landed in my inbox this morning. While suede is up there as a nightmare material to clean (can you imagine this with a newborn?) I just had to up my cover up game and make this jacket mine.

Cut Out Circle Necklace £19 - I've always hankered after bold, statement pieces so this cut out necklace is a real departure from my usual style but after spotting Lily wearing this layered up with a few other delicate necklaces in her vlog I was sold. If only there was a Cos store nearby *sad face*.

Plunge V-Neck Cami £16 - Basics are something I've been coveting more often as I'm finally realising the worth of simpler pieces in ones wardrobe, essential for a reformed pattern obsessive like myself. I love this rich blue hue and think it'd look awesome with my next pick.

Tropical Cotton Trousers £28 - As soon as the suns out I crave florals and more specifically floral trousers. This pair from Dorothy Perkins are a dead ringer for this pair from Reiss and are a fifth of the price. Sure they've got a white background but I find bold patterns hide a multitude of sins, namely food stains #messyeaterproblems.

Leather Roman Sandals £39.99 - These may or may not already be winging their way to me after I saw Mel sporting these very sandals. I've been wanting to get a new pair of nude, go-with-everything sandals for a while and this lace up pair may just be the ones. Fingers crossed they're not too flat.

Porcelain Print Jumpsuit £65 - I'll be amazed if I can wear anything so delicate and almost pyjama like again with a small baby enroute but if the opportunity did arise I'd be wearing this jumpsuit in a heartbeat. I love the delicate pastel pattern and can imagine this working just as well with heels and blazer at a Summer wedding as it would with flat sandals for a countryside picnic.

Suede Wrap Pencil Skirt £85 - While off the shoulder peasant tops might not be my seventies jam suede most certainly is. I love how Oasis have gone for one of my favourite neutrals, khaki to bring their suede collection to life. If only I had an excuse to buy this sophisticated co-ord... Any ideas?

Tall Printed Shirt Dress £19.99 - I'm forever seeing great pieces from New Look pop up on blogs but rarely venture in store myself so I love that ASOS not only stock their garms but have a tall range too. This shirt dress would be a super cute throw on and I think this teeny ditsy print could easily be inspired by some seventies curtains I once knew. Love.

Stone Necklace £17 - Marble is everywhere right now and while I own a marble inspired ring I'm yet to fall for the charms of a necklace, until now. Like the cut out circle necklace this triangle number comes on a longer chain, perfect for layering and keeping away from a little one. Need.

Which pieces are you currently adding to your Summer wardrobe?

The Birthday Wish List

Let's get one thing straight, this is by no means a definitive birthday list, if money was no object I'd have a dreamy Celine and a pair of Aquazurra flats for dessert. Head in the clouds gifts aside I'd be absolutely thrilled to receive any of these rather Hannah items for my impending birthday along with a huge cake and some quality time with friends and family. I don't ask for much do I?

(L-R) Front Roe by Louise Roe - I've followed Louises' career for as long as I can remember so I'm thrilled she's doing so well and has brought her own book out. I'd be more than happy to read this on my maternity leave instead of my hypnobirthing book, the girls got style. Not a clue who Louise is? Check out PixiWoos latest Tuesday chat with the lady herself here.

Ray-Ban Cats 5000 Sunglasses - After unsuccessfully lusting after a pair of Burberry sunglasses in my last birthday wish list I've now set my sights on a pair of Ray-Bans *note to self, must go try these on in store soon*. Sure I haven't tried them but how amazing does the model look? I'm forever 'borrowing' Craigs array of Ray-Bans so maybe it's time I got my own?

Chinti & Parker Stripe Heart Pocket T-Shirt - Chinti & Parker are one of those British brands I've lusted after for a while, with a buy better philosophy I love the luxe basics they make so audibly swooned when I spotted their collab with Liberty. A match made in heaven non? It may just seem like another breton striped top to the untrained eye but I know this would be in my wardrobe forever.

Joyeux Canape Plate - If you didn't know by now I have a thing for blue and white plates, while some say food looks better on a minimal white offering I vote blue and white every time. Throw a french phrase into the mix and it's a match made in plate heaven. 

ASOS Leather Minimal Backpack - After admiring the backpack movement from afar it's time for me to pounce especially with baby Wild hot on my heels. My thinking? Hands free bag action so I can still carry all my paraphernalia and a baby while looking all minimalist - a look I've never quite mastered but I'm sure I'll not struggle with when a baby's taking up my accessorising time. 

Catfish & the Bottlemen CD - As much as I adore Taylor Swift it's time my car got a new jam. Am I the only person out there who still likes a physical CD in my hands? Answers on a postcard.

Astrid & Miyu Wishbone Necklace - Astrid & Miyu seem to come out of nowhere, they're forever gracing my Instagram with their beautiful, lifestyle image shots and I for one am hooked. I adore their simple, elegant jewellery aesthetic that looks much more expensive than it's price tag. Can you believe this beaut is only £29? No me neither.

Are you lusting after any pieces in my birthday wish list? Do you still make a birthday list?

Ripped Knees & Maternity Stripes

Coral Coat: Reiss
Premium Soft Jersey Breton Stripe Maternity Top: ASOS
Pastel Statement Necklace: Anthropologie
Friendship Bracelet: Links Of London
Maternity Ripped Knee Jamie Jeans: Topshop
Leopard Print Chelsea Boots: Warehouse
Medium Navy Pashli: 3.1 Philip Lim

You know that feeling when you get your hair done and you love it that much you don't want to wash it? Yeah that. I know I've said it before but I'll say it again, how do hairdressers manage to get your hair so perfectly coifed? If only I could wake up with such a curly mane - I miss my four year old locks. Todays outfit shots may look like they've been snapped in a local park but this teeny peace garden is actually a stones throw from our house, literally. Must take more pictures here stat.

I'm sure if you look closely (and not even that closely) you'll spot my rapidly advancing baby bump - I can't believe I'm 23 weeks pregnant, where does time go? Dressing the bump is a doodle with Topshop maternity jeans by my side, I'm building quite the collection and my latest ripped knee pair could just be the best yet. While ripped knees may not be a fave with my nan I love them for adding a tough edge, the perfect accompaniment to my breton striped top non? I've been avoiding maternity tops like the plague until now - this ASOS number doesn't scream maternity and that's why I love it, ain't nobody got time for looking mumsy. Shout out to my Anthropologie necklace which I found in the sale just before Christmas. I'm obsessed. I'm also thrilled to be digging out my coral coat on ze blog, it's been a while since this baby made an appearance.

Tomorrow my bud Claire and I are heading to Nottingham for #BeautyChatLive and I could not be more excited, not only has it been a while since I stepped foot in Space NK but I finally get to meet two of my favourite bloggers, Lily and Anna who seem like the kinda girls that I'd be friends with in an instant. I'm far too excited for beauty chinwags and a Bills fish finger sandwich. Life priorities guys.

What do you make of my ensemble? Which bloggers would you love to be pals with?

Floppy Hats & Over The Knee Boots

Lilac Fedora: ASOS
Leather Jacket: Zara
Rib Front Cashmere Mix Dress: Whistles
Black Opaques: Wolford
Black Over The Knee Boots: River Island

Doesn't it just feel like forever since an outfit post graced the pages of Cagney and Lace? Let me say it's been far longer than I anticipated and I've given myself a good ol' talking to although I partially blame this horrendous weather we've been having. That and my terrible organisational skills, in the week they're ace but at the weekend I'm all about the relaxed down time and find myself with a headful of plans that never come to fruition, must sort stat.

That being said I'm certainly back with a bang, if I do say so myself. It's a rarity that I'd find myself wearing so much black but with a styling go for it from the fiancee I was all over the situation. Lilac fedora to cover up ready to be washed hair, a cosy cashmere mix dress to ward off the chill - a totally naughty but non regrettable purchase, Whistles I love you and not forgetting the piece de resistance, the of the moment, over the knee boots. River Island totally came up trumps with these day to night babies. Last but never least is my trust leather jacket which needed to be added because it's freakin' Winter and man is it cold right now. My only faux pas? Not applying enough L'Oreal Color Riche 376, I promise it looked dreamy pre photo shoot.

While things aren't looking anywhere near as glamorous this evening, I'm talking pyjama bottoms, fleecy blanket and Ben & Jerrys Minter Wonderland I'm actually enjoying these dark by 4pm evenings. Could it have something to do with the fact that Christmas is 43 days away?

What do you make of over the knee boots? Do you dig Whistles as much as me?