The Fool Proof Baby Sling

Bomber Jacket: Zara
Long Sleeve Breton Top: Hush
Relaxed Fit Jeans: New Look
Trina Sandals: Sam Edelman via Daniel Footwear
Baby Sling: Lifft Sling*

I was going to start this post by talking about my unruly mane but you know what, I really don't care. Looking at these pictures make me beam like you wouldn't believe and while my hair isn't quite perfect and my jeans a touch too baggy I'm having the best time, hands free discovering the world with my baby. I've always fancied being a sling wearing momma but after trying one with all of the buckles when Sadie was a few months old I was really put off. It took me an age to get her in it and when she was finally secure and I'd started pegging the washing out she had a full on meltdown, cue me trying to unfasten a thousand clips as fast as I could with a sobbing Sadie - I ended up feeding her with parts of the sling still attached to me! At that very moment I decided slings were not for me.

Enter the Lifft Sling, a continuous piece of material manufactured in Yorkshire that can be folded in half and placed over your head and shoulder, add a baby and you're off - it's that simple and there's not a buckle or clasp in sight. I've been testing the Lifft Sling, suitable from birth to 35lbs for the past month and must say I'm impressed - I love how it folds down into a small square so it doesn't take up too much precious real estate in my baby bag and how easy it is to switch from the pushchair to the sling at the first sound of a cry, even as a one year old Sadie loves nothing better than being picked up, especially while she's teething. Another real benefit for me personally is that the Lifft Sling has undergone biometrical testing to show it keeps your spine straight, spreading baby's weight evenly across your shoulder and back, encouraging good posture. My posture has definitely got worse since I had Sadie, partly down to breastfeeding so it's good to know this wondrous piece of machine washable cotton helps your stance too.

The only confusion I found with the Lifft Sling is sizing. If I was ordering direct from the online shop I'd of chosen a size 2 (UK size 10-12) but meeting the lovely Alex (half of the husband and wife Lifft Sling duo) for my personal fit consultation I was surprised to discover I was actually a size 1 (UK size 8-10) so in my experience I'd size down. That said team Lifft Sling are more than happy to exchange their slings until you feel you have the correct size for you and your baby, you can't say fairer than that. 

I'm so pleased to finally feel confident using a baby sling and I can't thank Alex enough for introducing me to the brand. My Lift Sling is the perfect addition to our baby carrying line up (we have the Uppababy Vista and Maclaren Techno XT) especially at a reasonable £49.95 which is a fraction of the price of some baby carriers on the market so if you're newb to the baby sling game or just fancy adding a fool proof take anywhere sling to your collection then the Lifft Sling is one to check out.

*PR Sample, all baby carrying thoughts my own.

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?