Hello April

Nude Pink Bomber Jacket: Zara
Striped Embroidered Top: Maison Laiche via Smallable
Khaki Casual Trousers: H&M
Navy Gazelles: Adidas

Well hello April! My favourite month of the year is officially here and I couldn't be more excited, the lambs are frolicking, the blossom is out and my birthday is less than two weeks away - last year of my twenties, here I come. Like anything in life it's so much harder to do something when you haven't for a while, I can't tell you the number of times I've sat down to write this post then struggled to find the words so I thought I'd work on the premise of 'let's get rambly' in order to get my first blog post in a while out there. 

I don't know if it's the lighter nights or the warmer temperatures we've been having but April is always a time where I feel incredibly happy and not just because it's my birthday month, although that does help - life feels good right now and I feel as though this last year has been a real milestone, not necessarily in a this is your life, look what I've achieved kind of way but more in the sense that at almost 29 I know who I am, what I want in life and what's truly important to me. You didn't think things would be getting this deep did you? I remember being in my early 20s and reading articles in Glamour where women would say how their 30s are so much better than their 20s and I used to think yeah whatever but now I can actually understand what they're talking about - yes to less self doubt and more life living. While we're opening the honesty can of worms I have so many ideas for Cagney and Lace that I need to bring to fruition and just crack on with instead of putting my lightbulb moments into my iPhone notes and leaving them there, this is my space and I'm keen to put a few ideas into play pronto. 

Now we've covered the life round up let's talk clothes and most importantly the fact that I'm not wearing jeans. Jeans are the cornerstone of many a successful wardrobe yet more often than not I find them becoming a bit of a comfort blanket when it comes to not knowing what to wear, factor in an incredibly active toddler and sometimes you just need a break from the sometimes restrictive item of clothing - I know I'm not the only one who throws their joggers on when they know they're not going out again for the day. After seeing many of my favourite bloggers, namely Alex and Anna rocking khaki pants I raced to the fitting room when I spotted these All Saints (Pure Shores, Never Ever not the store) esque trousers in H&M. As you'd expect from a drawstring waist trouser with super soft peachy feel they're incredibly comfortable and a little bit effortless which always gets a thumbs up in my book. Teamed with Gazelles and a striped tee it's not exactly groundbreaking (anyone else thinking Florals for Spring right now?) but aren't the best outfits a bit basic? The oversized nude pink bomber gives a real sports luxe vibe to proceedings and had it been warmer I think a mule sandal like these I've just ordered from Next would have been just the ticket but hey, sometimes you've gotta put on the Gazelles and go to the park with the family. 

I hope you're all loving April as much as me and if you've got any thoughts on the whole nearly turning 30 thing I'm all ears.

Eight Items To 'Spring' Your Wardrobe

Gingham Top - Pink Sweater - Folk Top - Embroidered Shirt - Fringed Knit - Belted Coat - Rainbow Gazelles - White Shirt

If you're looking for a collection of items that epitomise the rainbow and put a huge smile on your face in the process then you're in the right place. Opening my wardrobe this morning I was greeted by my staple cashmere knits, more navy, grey and breton stripes than you could shake a stick at and all of the jeans yet when it comes to pretty day to night tops that could potentially hide a multitude of grubby toddler hand stains (well maybe not the white shirt) to work with my collection of jeans and I'm seriously lacking - enter the eight piece wish list which could easily kick start my Spring wardrobe, now where's that money tree?

If you're a regular around these parts you'll know how I've always been a bit of Topshop princess but I have to say the store's been firmly pushed aside by my new go to & Other Stories, is there anything that brand can make that I don't want to buy? I think not. The folk inspired top has the sweetest pattern mixing stripes and spots while the fringed jumper is a real departure from my regular cashmere knits whilst still bringing the warmth, not forgetting the embroidered shirt - who doesn't love a twisted classic? Flared sleeves are all over the shop right now and while they're not the most practical for a mum I love the green gingham take on the trend from Warehouse and it'd be criminal not to include the scalloped detail shirt that I've seen Kim rocking.

Of course it wouldn't be Spring without some soft muted pastel shades and this season I'm coveting pink and lemon, a hue that's notoriously awkward to style but doesn't this belted coat put all those fears to bed? Good job Mango! The final pull it all together piece are my favourite kicks, the stellar Adidas Gazelles. Now you might remember me putting a pair of Stan Smiths in a previous styling post but after ordering them online I found them nowhere near as easy to style as my beloved Gazelles.

How are you looking to ready your wardrobe for Spring?

Sporty Was Always My Favourite

Grey Cashmere Knit: & Other Stories
Jenner Stripe Trouser: Whistles
Lace Up Trainers: Topshop
Hibiscus Blossom Bag: Mulberry
Faux Fur Aviator Jacket: Warehouse

It almost seems like yesterday that I was penning my last post, I feel like time goes even quicker now I'm a parent or could that just be a sign that life is more fun as a mum? That ladies and gentlemen is one thought I'll be pondering for days. This week saw a switch up in our usual parenting routine thanks to half term, not only is everywhere busier but there are zero groups running, the solution? Our first trip to soft play, Sadie had an absolute blast and understandably didn't want to leave while I got to test out the slide more than a few times - we'll definitely be going back. With Craig travelling here, there and everywhere with work right now we managed to sync our diaries and enjoy a date night together Friday where we tried Urban Choola before getting a crepe and a gin & tonic (or two) at Street City Market just over the road. If you're Sheffield based and have never been then I suggest you get yourself to their next event pronto - there's a mix of food vendors, two bars and the whole place has a real party feel.

We shot these outfit pictures last weekend when Sheffield decided to dangle the almost Spring carrot which means I wasn't actually freezing in the outtakes, something that hasn't happened for ages. The athleisure sports luxe trend shows no sign of waning thanks to one item in particular which can only be described as a grown up version of tracksuit bottoms, you know the kind you wore at school inspired by the one and only Sporty Spice or was that just me? I even had that lime green and navy reverse stripe Adidas tracksuit, I was always Sporty when we reenacted the Spice Girl music videos. Childhood memories aside I'm yet to find a pair of side stripe trousers that I haven't fallen head over heels for (Me & Em have a beautiful pair), there's just something so chic yet effortless about them and I love that they bring a dressed up vibe to an otherwise casual outfit - yes I am wearing another & Other Stories cashmere jumper, I can't get enough of their knitwear. I even wore them on a friends birthday night out recently and while I didn't quite get the styling right - I'm my own worst critic and don't think a strappy cami was the right pick, I felt uber stylish out in them. It's also nice to throw on something that isn't a pair of jeans so I'd highly recommend this style of trouser if you're looking to break your denim habit too. 

I trust your Sunday will be well spent? Sadie and I are introducing my friend Gemma to Show Me Joni this morning and I've no doubt she'll love it just as much as us.

What do you make of the athleisure trend? Was Sporty your favourite Spice?

Wild Hearts Run Free

Camel Coat: Marks & Spencer
Wool Mohair Bomber Cardigan: & Other Stories
Wild Heart Tee: Topshop
Raw Hem Straight Jeans: Topshop
Dorateymur Nip Zip Boots: Farfetch.com

The days since my last post have rolled into one hazy blur and to be frank I don't think I could tell you what I've done each day without consulting a calendar, Sadie is still out of sorts and I don't know if it's a cold or teething but what I do know is that it's been keeping me up many nights hence those tell tale bags that not even Nars radiant creamy concealer can disguise so there's nothing quite like a cinema trip, a holiday booking (or two) and the birth of a beautiful baby boy to boost a knackered mums spirits. I finally got to see La La Land Wednesday and in my book it truly deserves the hype, Ryan Gosling is well Ryan Gosling but Emma Stone is something else. I'm already having withdrawals and I'm waiting for the soundtrack to arrive any day. Yes I'm that girl. Thursday saw the birth of baby Rory, my friends second bambino and I couldn't be more proud. Any mum that goes back for more deserves a medal in my book. As any girl will know there's nothing like booking a vacay to make you feel all kinds of tropical so imagine how ecstatic I am that we now have two in the diary, eeeeeeeeeeek! Now who's ready for some outfit chat before I start planning Sadies holiday wardrobe?

If I had a pound for every time I've worn these jeans I'd easily be in double digits, to say I'm obsessed is putting it mildly and while I've raved about the merits of these jeans before I think the real saving grace for me is how well they work in my wardrobe, whether teamed with trainers or worn with a heeled sock boot (yes I've finally found the pair of my dreams) so much so that I've actually bought a back up pair, just in case of a denim emergency. Tucked into my jeans is a slogan tee I couldn't resist after my fashion forward pal Scarlett sent me an iMessage I couldn't ignore - as a Wild anything brandishing my new surname is a no brainer, you've been warned. Keeping me snug is a cardigan, something I having sported in a while but there's just something about this knitted bomber with sports luxe styling that makes it cooler than your regular cardi. The real dream boat here though is undoubtedly my oh-no-she-didn't Dorateymur boots. After spotting them on my weekly Net A Porter scroll I just couldn't get them out of my mind so you can imagine how things intensified when I saw them on Lindseys social, or was it Lucys? I promptly tracked them down on Farfetch along with a discount code and the rest, along with a DHL delivery mishap (DHL we are officially over) is history.

PS - Incase you wondered why my camel coat shots show me smiling like a goon to the right I thought it fitting to include a snap of Sadie in situ for the cutest context around.

The Morning After The Week Before

Wool Cashmere Coat: Jaeger
Striped Embroidered Top: Maison Laiche via Smallable
Pink Scarf: H&M
Raw Hem Straight Jeans: Topshop
Lace Up Trainers: Topshop

Long time no see, did you miss me? These past two weeks have been full on to say the least - let's just say everything goes to pot when my husband goes away skiing for a week, think a trip to a&e, matching mother daughter viral infections and minimal afternoon naps making one knackered me so I'm sure you can forgive my absence. It's not been all high temperatures, coughs and snot though as my mum, Sadie and I managed a rather luxurious stay over at Rudding Park in Harrogate which naturally included a spot of shopping, well I am my mothers daughter all. 

If you saw my stepping out of a style rut post you'll know I've been looking to add a blue blazer into the mix so I couldn't have tried this on quicker in Jaeger. Traditionally seen as a brand with a more mature customer base Jaeger have recently collaborated with some of my favourite bloggers to show their well made pieces to a new audience, much to my wardrobes gain. This wool cashmere tailored coat is as soft as our new puppy and made for those days where it's too cool to throw on a real blazer but you want to dress up those casual Sunday vibes outfits which is exactly what I've done here. For a brunch date with friends I attempted to disguise eye bags with stripes with a classic Maison Labiche breton, it may just be embroidered but more about that on my Insta. The real star of the show here though is one of the best pairs of jeans I've found in a long while, so much so I'm on the verge of ordering another colour or even the same shade again just so I have a back up pair and I'm never that sensible. Introducing the raw hem straight jean from Topshop - these fit true to size like a traditional jean with minimal stretch and have that wonderful mid rise straight cut that I'm forever searching for. With my ankles out I attempted to balance the skin exposure scales with my faithful pink scarf bringing a pop of pink to proceedings.

With over a week at home in the bag I can promise a few new items will be gracing the pages of Cagney and Lace so keep your fashion adoring eyes peeled. Time away from the blog has also got me thinking about a bit of a rebrand and maybe even a new name that represents me a little bit more, you might even have seen my poll on Twitter. I'd love to hear your thoughts? 

Stepping Out Of A Style Rut

Stan Smiths - Stripe Contrast Tee - Outfit 1 - Outfit 2 - Outfit 3 - Black Ankle Boots - Floral Dress - Outfit 4 - Outfit 5 - Outfit 6

So it's officially that time of year where my hair goes AWOL, my skin breaks out (probably all that 4pm chocolate I've been devouring) and I start to feel a bit meh about my wardrobe so instead of sitting in my loungewear binge eating tubs of forgotten chocolate and scanning Net A Porter for what if items (a bit like playing the Right Move game, but cheaper) I decided to focus my fashion obsessive energies on creating a lust worthy collage to ease me out of my I-only-ever-wear-knitwear phase. Now I doubt I'm alone in the jumper wearing club - it's January, it's pretty damn cold and hey I like to be warm but it's nice to mix things up at least one day a week right? Plus who doesn't start looking forward to Spring and the prospect of a bit of sunshine right about now? Hey we've all got to dream.

Whenever I find myself in a bit of a same old, same old fashion groove I head to three places: my favourite blogs, Pinterest and of course, the shops in order to refresh and most importantly reconnect with the type of style I aspire to achieve, my inner fashion inspiration if you will. I'd describe my ultimate style as laid back luxe with a smart edge and that could be in the form of a tailored jacket or a heeled ankle boot. While I love a touch of pattern (that floral Whistles dress will be my Spring Summer jam) I'm quickly realising the items I reach for the most, and the ones that work the hardest in my wardrobe are actually pattern free, 18 year old Hannah would literally be in bits by this revelation. 

With this in mind I've taken a not so fine tooth comb to the looks above and there's three pieces that I'm keen to add to my closet immediately. First up is a pair of taller than your average black ankle boots as championed by my favourite blogger Lizzy Hadfield. I love how these look teamed with straight leg blue jeans to make the most casual of outfits look that little bit polished. Secondly is the white trainer, I can't get enough of Stan Smiths paired with a smart coat to bring a real sense of balance to an ensemble. The final piece on my fashion radar (although I could easily name a few more because we all know I like to shop) is a navy blazer as sported by the serious babe with the most amazing hair in the centre of my collage. As I'm sure you'll have gathered I'm all about the high low mix and I think this, similarly to my camel coat could be an instant wardrobe elevator. Enough said.

How do you take yourself out of a style rut?

The Easy Wardrobe Elevators

Camel Coat: Marks & Spencer
Braided Sweater: & Other Stories
Faux Leather Trousers: Topshop
Two Tone Courts: Zara
Gold Bangle: Kate Spade

The first week in January is notoriously a tough one but that couldn't be further from reality in the Wild household, not only did we finally decide to get a new dog (I know this is mega news in itself) but it was also Craigs big birthday week where he turned 3-0! With all of the birthday celebrations this week it's felt like the festive season hasn't really ended especially when you factor in the indulgent dining and my current, and frankly obscene 4pm chocolate consumption - seriously, what am I going to do when my Cadburys stash runs out? Now before I get carried away talking about three course meals, glasses of vino and can't get enough carrot cake (which I made!) let's cover the new dog basics because that's what I'd want to know. We're getting a beautiful Beddlington Terrier called Bramble and he's becoming a part of the family at the end of January, excited is an understatement.

Yesterday saw the penultimate instalment of the 30th year of living celebrations with brunch at one of Craigs favourites Tamper Sellers Wheel with my side of the family. Tamper is in the heart of Sheffield city centre surrounded by some of the coolest street art so it'd been criminal not to get a shot or two. I've been dreaming of the perfect camel coat for what feels like a fashion lifetime so I couldn't have been more pleased to find this Marks & Spencer beauty under the Christmas tree, (thanks Craig) everything from the cashmere blend to the perfect smart and swishy length means even the simplest outfits is instantly elevated. Underneath I'm wearing one of my favourite jumpers, ever. It's so different yet classic at the same time and it makes a real change from the rest of my knitwear. That said it's definitely one piece that requires careful styling as it has a tendency to make you appear tent like unless paired with something slim fitting. Introducing my faux leather trousers which have become a real cornerstone in my wardrobe as they're that perfect go to piece for when you don't really know what to wear but want to look pulled together. Speaking of items that make you feel polished let's give a stylish nod to my Chanel inspired two tone courts, sometimes Zara hit the ball out of the park - I've worn these shoes more than I care to admit so it helps that they're comfy too.

Things are looking a lot quieter and January like this week with the exception of another birthday dinner at the sensational Bhaji Shop so I'm hoping to break the chocolate tv cycle, get back to the gym and make myself a hair appointment because the root situation is getting outta control. 

What are you getting up to this week? Which pieces are fundamental in your wardrobe? 

The Boxing Day Stroll

Lace Up Jumper: Zara
Bonded Notch Trousers: Topshop
Ambrose Loafer Boots: Whistles

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you all had the most spectacular day with your nearest and dearest and managed to consume your body weight in festive fodder without getting the food sweats. Christmas Day this year was the first time I've ever eaten my dinner without my mum and dads company so I didn't really know what to expect of the day, that said I can safely say Christmas 2016 has been one of my favourites. The food was delish, the company noteworthy and Sadie had the best time cooking up a wooden pizza storm in her new toy kitchen. I think we'll be eating wooden pizza for days. Side note - one incredibly unfestive thing I'm into right now is the new season of The Affair, it's so good. If you watched it before but found it a touch slow then I think you'll enjoy the slightly faster paced new episodes, I've been binge watching them whenever I can as Craigs just not that into it. 

Yesterday Craig, Sadie and I went on a family walk to blow away the cobwebs or should I say be blown away, storm Barbara is clearly one woman to be reckoned with. Now we need to talk about the fact that I'm wearing black tailored trousers, something I haven't worn since my secondary school days where my friends and I used to sport the tightest possible black trousers we could get away with without being hauled into the head of years office. I've been itching to buy a pair for a while as I hear on the grapevine they're a bit of a wardrobe staple plus it's nice not to wear jeans everyday but I've put off the purchase for ages because aren't black trousers the most dull buy? This is probably the very reason why I struggle to dress in a morning but what can I say, I'm a bit of a magpie and black trousers just don't excite me, so far though they're panning out as I'm head over heels for these with my oversized lace up jumper and loafer inspired boots and I think they'd be equally ace with some sparkly heels and a silky pyjama blouse for an evening out, what do you think?

Today the three of us are heading to Leeds to buy birthday gifts, meet up with friends and immerse ourselves in Victoria Gate because it's that exceptional. Be sure to keep your peepers on my Instagram for any sale finds.

Are black trousers one of your wardrobe staples? Do you find buying basics as dull as me?

Christmas Market Sundays

Faux Fur Aviator Jacket: Warehouse
Oversized Tie Waist Midi Dress: Topshop
Sheer Black Tights: Marks & Spencer
Studded Amy Boots: Topshop
Cream Knit Bobble Hat: River Island

I'm putting together this post with the remnants of mince pie (easily the best I've eaten so far from Forge Bakehouse in case you were wondering) on my left and a steaming mug of tea on my right all whilst watching our log fire throw all kinds of shapes, as Sunday evenings go I don't think it could get any more spot on. We've throughly embraced the Christmas festivities this year with the family and I visiting not one, not two but three Christmas markets on the last three Sundays and while I had all the best intentions of capturing the moment and getting blog photos I've usually been too perished to even contemplate it, it's safe to say Winter is officially here. I think it's officially time to crack out the long sleeved thermals! 

Today Craig, Sadie and I visited the Sharrowvale Christmas market which I think won hands down in the battle of the festive markets thanks to the amazing food filled stalls (big love to Eve Kitchen and their to die for donuts & Birdhouse Tea) and homeware store Pom (Chatsworth was dreamy but a bit too busy and there wasn't enough at Whirlow but Sadie loved all the animals). My Christmas shopping is now firmly complete so all that's left to tackle is the decorations and put up the tree, I couldn't be more excited to get the baubles out but Craig is dragging his sorry feet and I really don't fancy trying to navigate our loft hatch/ladder situation so right now it's stalemate. Have you succumbed and put your tree up already? I'd love to know as looking at Instagram I feel like the only Christmas spirited gal without a tree in my living room.

For me Christmas market trips are all about being warm and cosy so you know my faux fur aviator jacket had to be involved which is easily the best purchase I've made all season. It's so snuggly and much nicer than the one Topshop do and a fraction of the price of the Reiss version and original Acne offering. Underneath is my newest arrival and I still can't believe it's a dress! I can't remember the last time I sported a dress in the day but thanks to the midi length it's ideal for all day mum kneeling, universally flattering grey shade and the Whistles inspired tie waist it's just a little bit perfect. To keep this out of frumpy mum territory I teamed it with sheer tights and my favourite bad ass buckle boots which rarely leave my feet, they're that comfortable. That said I do think it'd look ace with a heeled sock boot too, in fact there may be a pair winging their way to me as I type - well it is the season of good will after all.

Are you embracing the festive season? What do you make of my ensemble?

Christmas Wishing

Hana Pom Hat - Chic Stays - Inside Vogue - Black boots - Gracie Sheepskin Mittens - Maggie Ankle Boots - Cashmere Joggers - Camel Coat - Cashmere jumper - Faux Fur Blanket - Leopard Boots - Tempo Charity Bracelet - Little Liffner Bag

The most wonderful time of the year is quickly approaching and I for one am starting to get just a little bit excited. It might not be our first Christmas as a three but that doesn't mean I'm any less joyous - our almost eighteen month old is talking, noticing and developing at such an alarming rate that I think Christmas and all the festivities that come with it will enchant her senses like never before which is something I can't wait to see. Whenever the festive countdown begins (clearly earlier every year if these blog posts are anything to go by) I grab a cup of tea, my snuggliest blanket and pen a what-I'd-love-to-find-under-the-tree/gift guide for females just like me so take note, get inspiration or simply enjoy this rather aesthetically pleasing collection of goodies.

This year I'm lusting after two pieces I'm itching to buy but can't justify namely a camel coat and a new pair of leopard print boots - both have been at the top of my wish list forever and I've finally found the perfect camel contender in my favourite M&S. With a blend of wool and cashmere I know this coat will transcend seasons making it an all year rounder and the gift that'll keep on giving. Leopard print has always been a neutral in my eyes and after wearing my Warehouse leopard print boots a ton I've no doubt these Mango beauties would be a worthy wardrobe replacement. I'm clearly having a real ankle boot moment this season as I had to include these dusty rose wonders from Topshop and a real luxe pair from Jimmy Choo who have some amazing shoes this season.

When it comes to gifts I'm a firm believer in buying elevated versions of the everyday and that's where this 100% wool Hana bobble hat comes in, throw in a pair of sheepskin mittens and all of the cashmere - hello joggers of my dreams and the most perfect embroidered slogan jumper and you just need some festive wrapping paper. While we're talking about the elevated everyday let's talk handbags - if you're a regular around here you'll know how much I love them and right now I've coveting a more minimal, goes with everything style and the brand Little Liffner are ticking all the boxes. Their seventies inspired saddle bags are everything and while suede isn't that practical I kind of love the plum shade, that said the black leather version is pretty divine too.

One item I love to give and receive every Christmas is books especially if the ceiling and not the sky is your limit when it comes to budget - there's so many titles I've got my eye on this year and don't get me started on cook books. My final gift suggestions are two you'd rarely buy yourself, say hello to the most Intagram ready blanket and an item that gives back - the Tembo charity bracelets from Auree are not only a lovely layering piece but all the profit goes directly to the fight against elephant poachers. 

What's on your Christmas wish list this year?

Chunky Knits For Life

Suede Biker Jacket: Topshop
Per Una Frill Jumper: Marks & Spencer
Stepped Hem Orson Jeans: Topshop
Soft Pink Scarf: H&M
Studded Western Boots: Topshop

For me theres just one item that epitomises Autumn Winter and that's huge, chunky as you can possibly get knitwear - there's just something incredibly comforting about getting super snuggly and toasty before stepping out into the chill and if you can't go out in your Rosie for Autograph dressing gown then a pullover is the next best thing. Sundays in the Wild household are all about big breakfasts and getting fresh air and this week was no exception. I've been so impressed with M&S lately and not just for their divine food and phenomenal thermal vests, 'cos it wouldn't be a Cagney and Lace post without me mentioning a thermal - they've been hitting it out of the park with their offering this season (I've been raving non stop on my Instagram) and something I had to pick up is this cream frill jumper which caused a double take enroute to the car park at the end of a shopping trip, not the easiest of things to do when you've got a bambino ready for an afternoon nap. There's something a bit Isabel Marant about this jumper and who doesn't love frills and a cable knit combo? I rest my case.

Jeans have always been a staple in my wardrobe, tell me I'm not the only one who struggles with what to wear on my bottom half when the temperatures start to drop? I picked up these straight leg stepped hem jeans when the weather was a tad warmer (outfit post here) but I must admit I enjoy them paired with an ankle boot. Speaking of boots I've got to mention these 'blast from the past' Topshop numbers which I bought over three years ago after hunting down one of the last pairs of size sevens. I love these just as much as the day I bought them and think they bring a seventies nod to a rather simple look. To round off proceedings it had to be my suede biker with the snuggliest scarf you could ever encounter from wooly accessory slayers H&M, those guys and girls know how to do affordable Winter perfect accessories.

I couldn't be more excited about this week as it includes a flying visit to London for a press day and because I had to factor my train around the obscene commuter prices there may just be a few hours free for shopping. My last trip to the capital was for my hen party back in April and before that to order my wedding shoes with Sadie and my mum so it'll be well over a year that I've enjoyed some solo retail therapy in one of my favourite places. Pray for my bank balance?

Have you been loving M&S this season too?