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Outfit: Midi Dress and Jimmy Choos at The Albert Dock

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I had another lovely weekend in Liverpool with Adam, a city for which my love grows each time I visit. Today we went to Ness Gardens which I'll be writing about tomorrow.
We went put for dinner last night but not before we paused (and posed) to take some photographs of the stunning Albert Dock. 

It was a warm evening and less than an hour after these photos were taken, there was the most spectacular thunder and lightning storm.






I couldn't wait to wear my Ted Baker midi dress again and as always, I was excited to don my Jimmy Choos.




Love Liz x

Outfit details
Dress, Ted Baker, SS15
Shoes: "Tahiti" in champagne glitter , Jimmy Choo
Pewter leather clutch bag, Boden AW13

Days Out: Ness Botanic Gardens, Liverpool

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Ness Botanic Gardens, is part of The University of Liverpool and lies in South Wirral. 
We spent Sunday morning walking through the 64 acres of quite informal and natural gardens. It was the epitome of weekend relaxation and felt like we were taking a four hour stroll in the most beautiful of parks.


Wildflowers are resplendent at this time of year.


I love the contrast of cornflower blue with bright yellow. A striking combination, opposites on the colour wheel.



Ness Gardens is quite hilly which affords views over other areas. In fact on a clearer day, there are far reaching views towards North Wales.







There were deckchairs throughout and we saw guests picnicking, reading or just enjoying the tranquility.
I'd quite like to escape for a few hours with a book, a flask of tea and a piece of Victoria Sponge.


There were so many butterflies flitting around. The insect bites on my legs are testament to my dedication (craziness) in trying to capture a photo...


... but I'd say it was worth it.



We ate our picnic on a bench in an elevated position in the sunshine.
Lunch with a view that would be hard to beat.





This wood-lined path made me think of an enchanted wood...


...and there was even a fairy swinging from a branch.



And it's beginning to look a bit like autumn, perhaps my favourite season.











The vegetable garden was perhaps the most formal area of the gardens.
The whole of Ness is very relaxed and natural.
Simple in its beauty.




And, as is our way, we ended up in the cafe. 
Rhubarb crumble and custard for Adam and lemon and ginger cake for me.



Love Liz x

Outfit Details
Cream lace dress, Jack Wills
Silver sandals, Boden SS15
Yellow bowling bag, Boden SS14

Outfit: Distressed Jeans and Navy Layered Top

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The deadline for the October issue of Aspire is rapidly approaching so I've been busy ensuring everything is up to date. One of our regular features is Local People and today I had the privilege of meeting a sprightly septuagenarian about whom I'm writing.
Because I went to her home, (as opposed to meeting someone in their workplace or place of business), I could afford to be more casually attired so opted to wear a pair of new jeans that I got when away in Liverpool last weekend.

The jeans were truly an emergency purchase, the button having popped off my beloved Fever skinny jeans that morning.  (I know, I know. I go to a lot of cafes and eat a lot of cake). Adam very kindly went on a mercy mission to get a safety pin which worked just fine until we sat down for lunch, a Chinese buffet, when it popped open and stabbed me.

Ummmm. Cause and effect...?

I hadn't taken spare clothes, so went to Next because I've worn a pair of their cropped jeans regularly since getting them in the summer sale. I actually ended up buying two pairs. A replacement skinny pair and these mid-blue straight legs which are slightly distressed. 

Much like myself when stabbed with a safety pin. 

I wore my double layered navy top from independent Skipton shop Munchkins and a statement necklace to add a little colour. My ballerina shoes are several years old and are navy glitter. I love them and I definitely subscribe to the "sparkle is not just for evenings" school of thought.

What Lizzy Loves wears navy top, distressed jeans and Happiness Boutique statement necklace.

What Lizzy Loves wears navy top, distressed jeans and Happiness Boutique statement necklace.

What Lizzy Loves wears navy top, distressed jeans and Happiness Boutique statement necklace.

What Lizzy Loves wears navy top, distressed jeans and Happiness Boutique statement necklace.

What Lizzy Loves wears navy top, distressed jeans and Happiness Boutique statement necklace.

The top has a dipped hem and a cute bow on the back,

What Lizzy Loves wears navy top, distressed jeans and Happiness Boutique statement necklace.

Navy glitter ballerina shoes by Kurt Geiger

Love Liz x

I wore this navy top back in June with THE Boden Alice tasselled heels.

I wore this statement necklace with a broderie tunic and the Next cropped jeans I mentioned above when on holiday.

Outfit Details
*Navy layered bow top, Munchkins SS15 £17
Slim Fit Jeans, Next AW15 £22
*Yellow Bowling Bag, Boden SS14
*Be Beautiful Statement Necklace, Happiness Boutique SS15 22,90 Euros
Navy glitter ballerina shoes, Kurt Geiger
Navy butterfly watch, Olivia Burton

I'd love you to take a look at my Instagram feed, I add extra photographs there, in addition to and different from, those on my blog.

This blog post links up with:

Brilliant blog posts on HonestMum.com

The Boden Clearance Sale, My Picks.

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It'll come as no surprise to hear that I'm a huge fan of Boden clothing and that it comprises a significant part of my wardrobe. Last season, (Spring Summer), I didn't buy very many items, but those I did, I have worn and worn.

The end of season sale started back in June with everything now moving into the clearance section and benefiting from further reductions of up to 70%, so it's well worth a look.

The Eliza Tunic Dress below also comes in a beautiful sulphur yellow colourway and is reduced from £99 to £23.76 for the yellow and £31.68 for the grey like mine. 

I have worn mine with bare legs and sandals as I did when I visited Harlow Carr below as well as with nude tights and the Alice heels in spring (see below) and also with black opaque tights and heeled boots in February. 
A very versatile addition for all year round.

It is silk and washes beautifully in the machine. 
I'm 5 ft 9 and am wearing a size 10 long.


The Alice heels are just fabulous and I still get excited every time I wear them. There is an array of colours available including a very useful black and pewter.
Don't forget they come in a mid-heel and a flat version too. Tassels for all occasions.
They run true to size. I always get a 41 in Boden shoes and these are no exception.



These are the Flora Sandals which I purchased in the sale. They too run true to size and mine are a 41. There is a variety of colours including pearl, a very useful tan (which I have just ordered at the brilliant price of £14.16), yellow (sooo tempted but managed to resist) and a soft aqua.

Depending on colour, the price ranges from £14.16 to £33.04


These floral canvas slip-on pumps have been a huge hit and when I put them on Instagram, several ladies went and ordered a pair. I get compliments everty time I wear them. 
They too were a sales purchase and they are from the Johnnie B teenage range. Priced at £17.36 they are a great price and there are several sizes left.
It is worth noting that in my opinion, they run large to size and I have them in size 40. 


I have also just ordered a few more things including this sun top, reduced to just £8.40...

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And this smock top that I think is a great trans-seasonal piece and also comes in navy, £38.64

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And, because the children and I are going abroad next year, i couldn't resist the Corsica Kaftan that comes in three colourways and is just £16.56.

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And finally, one of the hits of the season, The Lille Lace Up Point shoes in navy, reduced from £89 to £36.60. They also come in silver (£28.48)  and orange (£21.36).

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And, if I may, I'd just like to remind you that my online boutique has a gorgeous array of scarves (a selection of which below) and jewellery starting at £9.50 with free UK delivery.
I have worn either a silver or gold wrap bracelet almost every day this summer with both very casual and very smart outfits.










Love Liz x

The Boden Clearance
What Lizzy Loves Boutique

All prices and details correct at the time of writing.

Days Out: The Malham Show

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The Malham Show is an annual event that takes place on the Saturday of the August Bank Holiday weekend. It's always a brilliant day out and today was no exception.








Yorkshire is renowned for its dry stone walls so watching these craftsmen take part in a walling competition is fascinating. I'm always amazed that no cement is used. The stones are simply balanced in a way so as to stand the test of time.













Love Liz x

Here is my blog post about the Malham Show last year.

Outfit Details
Henford Jacket, Joules
Broderie Top, Johnnie B at Boden
Skinny Jeans, Next
*Sunglasses, Tommy Hilfiger at Specsavers
Aspley Tweed Wellingtons, Hunter

My 12 Favourite Summer Outfits

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I can't believe its he last day of August and here in North Yorkshire at least, we didn't have a brilliant summer weather wise, but a bit of careful planning, and a lot of fortunate timing meant that had some wonderful days out when the sun did shine.  

Over the last few months, I've tried to make the most of my wardrobe by wearing things, dresses in particular, that I would previously have kept for best. It's been made easier by having all of my clothes hanging on rails, something I did when I converted my spare room into a walk-in closet

Nothing is hidden away or lying forgotten and redundant at the back of a wardrobe. It's been a great way of realising the versatility of several of my dresses, by wearing them with sandals for a daytime look rather than just with heels for an evening or more formal look.

Navy bow top and skinny jeans

Flamingo print dress and silver sandals

Floral maxi dress

Red broderie anglaise dress with snake print wedges

White embroidered dress with strappy tan heels

Dragonfly midi dress and Jimmy Choos

Floaty floral top and skinny jeans

Blush lace top and denim shorts

Broderie tunic and cropped jeans

Pompom dress with animal print accessories

Boden Eliza Tunic Dress with Silver Sandals

What Lizzy Lovs wears cream lace tunic dress at Ness Botanic Gardens
Lace Tunic Dress
So here's to a dry, crisp autumn.
Let the party season begin...

Love Liz x

My Favourite Spring Outfits
My Favourite Winter Outfits

I'd love you to follow me on Instagram and Facebook if you don't already. I often post extra photographs there of outfits. accessories and other lovely things that I don't include in my blog.


Outfit: Pompom Dress with Tweed Jacket

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We had a lovely Bank Holiday Monday and spent it at my parents' home along with my brothers and their families. 
As always, it rained and as always, my dad stood determinedly under a parasol turning sausages and burgers while my mum ran around doing the rest. It's always such a treat to be cooked for and time with my family is very precious. Busy lives mean it's rare that we're all together. 

I love this & Other Stories pompom dress and wore it last month during my wonderful weekend away in Liverpool on what was a lovely warm day. Monday was on the cool side so I added my jersey tweed jacket (The Henford from Joules), which is as soft and comfortable as a cardigan and perfect for the transition between summer and autumn.
I also have this jacket in blue, and at the time of writing, both are reduced to £59.95. The new season's collection sees one in pale grey. I'm very tempted to invest because I have found my other two to be invaluable throughout springs and autumns past.

It is very rare that I wear my hair up, but my daughter, who has hair much longer than mine, loves to experiment and I am always a willing recipient of her skills. She did a loose French plait and a messy bun and I absolutely loved it. It stayed the day and it made a lovely change.







Love Liz x

Thank you to everyone who follows me on Instagram. My followers went over the 1000 mark on Monday and I'm thrilled. I've become increasingly interested in photography and I'm always looking for ways to make my Instagram feed look exciting. I often post additional photographs to those on my blog and where possible, make it as "insta" as possible.
Thank you too to everyone who follows me on Facebook, Twitter and Bloglovin. Again, I post additional content on my Facebook page particularly special offers, discount codes and relevant blog posts from the archives.

Outfit Details
Pompom Dress, & Other Stories SS15
Jersey Tweed Henford Jacket, Joules SS13
Snake Print Wedges "Pafos Emery", Clarks
Leopard Print Bag, Jacqueline Headlam

Outfit: A Customised Denim Shirt and Skinny Jeans

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Customising clothes is not something I've done for a long long time, so I was intrigued when invited by Next, to customise one of their new season's denim shirts to see what I could do.
I have two denim jackets that I wear only with very feminine dresses and because for me, double denim has been a no-no, a denim shirt isn't something I'd have considered had it not been for this opportunity.

It's difficult to tell from the photographs how soft, lightweight and comfortable the shirt is. In fact I loved it as it was and was a little apprehensive about changing it.




Art is not my strong point, so I needed something that was simple to execute. I also felt it was vital that the customisations reflected my taste so the shirt would "be me".

As alluded to above, I find denim, (when worn on my top half at least), a little masculine so I wanted to soften the look and make it prettier. I got some broderie anglaise and some flower shaped buttons for the pockets.

I also wanted to put something on the back and was ridiculously excited to find an iron on butterfly. I love butterflies and because I visited a lot of gardens over summer, they featured quite a few times on my blog posts and Instagram feed.



The butterfly took just a few seconds to apply.



Sewing a button is sadly where my talent as a seamstress starts and finishes so I used iron on webbing to attach the broderie anglaise lace.


The little navy flower buttons were only a few pence each...


...and I replaced the top button with one as well as those on the pockets.



I wore it today with skinny jeans also from Next (there are so many styles online, I'm not certain which they are, but they are current season) and navy glittery ballerina pumps.







I love the finished result. It isn't dramatically different but it's me and it's unique. The materials cost less than £2 it is something anyone can do.

Love Liz x

*Blue Black Denim Shirt, Next AW15
Skinny Jeans, Next, AW15
Navy glittery ballerina shoes, Kurt Geiger

What to Wear to an Autumn Winter Wedding.

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I haven't attended a wedding for quite a while, the last one was that of my friend Sally last summer for which I wore sequins and metallics in neutral tones.



But deciding what to wear to an autumn or winter wedding can be a little more difficult.

The September issue of Aspire is a wedding special and my column is about fashion for the bride and mother of the bride, but the advice could actually be applied to any wedding guest so I thought it might be useful to adapt it and share...

Wedding Season has traditionally been spring and summer, but weddings later in the year are becoming increasingly more popular. The autumn winter bride has the option of choosing a heavier fabric for her gown, perhaps one with more embellishment than would be appropriate in summer. 
Brocades, sequins, metallics, velvet, rich lace and embroidery add to the richness of a winter wedding, especially one by candlelight.

Bridesmaid dresses too can be darker, richer and more sumptuous with jewel and berry hues complimenting the season.

A woman’s clothing should reflect her style and personality and be “occasion appropriate.” Clothes for a wedding in gardens will be very different to those for a traditional church wedding. September different to February. 
The colour scheme and style of the wedding should be borne in mind.
If the bride is to wear a fitted, sequinned, glamorous gown (and guests are privvy to this information beforehand), guests would not look out of place in a cocktail dress. If the wedding has a delicate, ethereal, romantic theme, then a soft, fluid floaty dress would be ideal.
If the bridesmaids are to wear rich autumn shades, the photographs will be easier on the eye if the mother of the bride and women in the wedding party choose similar shades. Other guests may not know what the colour scheme will be, but the wedding invitation often gives a clue!

The unpredictable British weather means a matching jacket, wrap or umbrella are wise considerations whatever the season with wellingtons becoming increasingly popular especially at country weddings for brides and guests alike.

Built in corsetry and support underwear and hosiery can help smooth the silhouette. Ruching and pleating are excellent design details and masters in the art of disguise. Sheer sleeves, a bolero jacket or wrap will cover the upper arm area without altering the overall look of the ensemble.  A vintage style lace cape, a faux fur stole will add warmth, texture and style detail.

The outfit should be practical as well as stylish. It must stay the day, so comfort, especially of the shoes, must be greatly considered. It's worth having an alternative pair to change into for the evening, especially if there will be dancing. 

For the mother of the bride in particular, a lot of guests will see her outfit from the back. It's useful to look at photographs taken from all angles before making the final choice. This ensures the colour is flattering and translates well in photographs too.
With a well-chosen, considered outfit, the bride's mother should be able to get dressed and continue her day without giving her attire any further thought, leaving her to watch her daughter sparkle and shine. 



Love Liz x

My Accessories Boutique: The New Collection

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Autumn is, I think, my favourite time of year. My birthday is next month and that heralds the start of the party season which means family, friends, fun and fizz, not to mention a surfeit of sequins and sparkles.

Accessorising winter outfits is much easier too and scarves play a major part in my wardrobe adding warmth, interest and a splash of colour.

The new scarf collection for my online boutique is stunning and is my favourite yet. There are three leopard prints, two vibrant polka dot designs and three fabulous new florals, all in gorgeous colourways.












The jewellery has been a huge success and something which we are looking to expand.

The silver and gold wrap bracelets are so versatile and work throughout the year...



... and the snake print wrap bracelet adds a little excitement to monochrome outfits.


The dragonfly pendant is a mellow rose gold colour and works with so many designs and styles as well as co-ordinating beautifully with the gold wrap bracelet.


I can't wait to wear each and every one of these scarves. I keep one of each design for myself after photographing them and every item in the boutique is something I truly love and wear.

Every item is beautifully wrapped in bright pink tissue paper and they make wonderful presents for any occasion.

I'd love you to take a look...

Love Liz x

All scarves and jewellery available from my online boutique What Lizzy Loves.
Scarves £10 with free UK delivery
Dragonfly Pendant £12
Wrap Bracelets £9.50

Outfit: Skinny Jeans, Sweater and Leopard Print Scarf

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Yesterday was the first Sunday football match of the season for my son and the early morning was bathed in autumn mist.  It got progressively warmer and along with the other parents, I enjoyed watching the boys for three hours in glorious sunshine.

My scarf is one of the new designs from my online boutique and I love the soft tones. 






I'm so pleased with how well my patio rose has bloomed. It smells as gorgeous as it looks.



The football took longer than anticipated and my son had quite a deep cut on his knee that needed attending to when we got home. This coincided with my parents arriving because we had a lunchtime reservation at a local restaurant. 
As a result, time got the better of us so I didn't get any photographs of the outfit I wore for lunch- my Onjenu maxi dress.

I did however manage to photograph my utterly divine summer fruit pudding.



Love Liz x

Outfit details
Cotton sweater, Fat Face SS13
Skinny Jeans, Next
Leopard print scarf, What Lizzy Loves Boutique (also available in aqua and brown)
Gold wrap bracelet,What Lizzy Loves Boutique
Pull on floral trainers, Johnnie B by Boden, SS15

Outfit:Skinny Jeans, Tweed Jacket, Pink Scarf and Turquoise Ballerinas.

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My son went back to school today so my daughter and I made the most of the rare opportunity to spend the day together and went to Leeds for shopping and lunch. It was a long summer holiday for both of my children and we loved every minute of it, but it does slightly reduce my efficiency when working. They're old enough to be left alone for a few hours though, so I went to two very different but equally wonderful local shops about which I'm writing features for the November issue of Aspire

It was another misty morning and there was a definite hint of a chill in the air, so it was the perfect excuse to wear another of the new scarves from my online boutique








The first of my appointments was at a fabulous gift shop, The Olive Branch, in the village of Addingham, West Yorkshire. It's a place I've visited many times and it was an absolute pleasure to meet the owner, Danuta Johnson and to learn a little about her and the history of the business.

It stocks a gorgeous array of cards, gifts and jewellery...







...and some Christmas stock had just arrived.


My second meeting was at New Laithe Farm Butchers in Cross Hills, North Yorkshire. It was my first visit there and as a lover of fresh, locally sourced produce, it was a visual feast. The owner, Ian Hall, a butcher who started his working life as a graduate industrial chemist, was full of enthusiasm and pride and it reminded me once again how fortunate we are in this area to have so many wonderful shops, businesses and places to visit. Part of my role for the magazine is the occasional restaurant review and as a brilliant alternative, Ian gave me some produce to cook and review at home. The thought of eating and sharing locally sourced, delicious food fills me with such enthusiasm and excitement that I can barely wait to cook it.




As jobs go, I'm rather privileged.

Love Liz x

Outfit Details
White Shirt, Jack Wills
Jersey Tweed Henford Jacket, Joules
Skinny Jeans, Next £22 AW15
Navy Westminster handbag, Boden SS15
*Turquoise ballerinas, The British Flat Shoe Company, £105
*Bracelet: Trollbeads Flower Lock £45, Blue Diamond Bead, Trollbeads Cambridge
Silver Wrap Bracelet, What Lizzy Loves Boutique, £9.50
Pink Floral Scarf, What Lizzy Loves Boutique, £10

This blog post links up with:
I Will Wear What I Like

Outfit: Maxi Dress and Denim Jacket for Shopping in Leeds

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My son went back to school on Wednesday, but my daughter didn't go back until yesterday, so we made the most of the opportunity for some rare girly time and went to Leeds for lunch and shopping. It's an easy 40 minute train journey from Skipton and one we do quite frequently.

It was quite mild so I opted to wear my maxi dress for what I suspect will be the last time for quite some months. Much of the shopping is under cover, so layers aren't really required. 





Leeds Trinity is a modern, undercover shopping mall added to the city centre less than three years ago. It is light and airy and has an array of eateries and also a cinema.



We lunched at Wagamamas, my daughter's favourite. I had my usual dish of chicken raisukaree,which, if I'm honest, was slightly below parr, for the first time ever. A little drier than usual and in fact, my daughter thought the same about her own dish. We still managed to eat everything though and it certainly didn't spoil our lunch date, but we did feed this back to our young waitor.


We spent a while perusing the cosmetics counters in Harvey Nichols. In common with many 14 year olds, my daughter is quite obsessed with eyebrows so went spent a not insiginificant proportion of this looking at goodness knows how many eyebrow gels, powders and kits. Which to these clearly untrained eyes, were barely distinguishable from each other.

We were both fascinated by these Christian Louboutin nail polishes. They are quite a work of art and would look stunning on anyone's dressing table. 



And I stood mesmerised by these Valentino Rockstuds. What I wouldn't give...




The shoes in Office were (almost) as covetable and while my daughter tried on Chelsea boots, I tried on a few pairs of these.
And bought a pair and all shall be revealed in due course.
You may remember in a previous post, I mentioned that I ordered some Lille pointed flats from the Boden sale. Unfortunately, I returned them because they rubbed my little toe, so these are to fill the "ghillie shoes" gap that was never in my shoe closet.



The Victoria Quarter in Leeds is much more traditional and houses designer stores including Mulberry, Vivienne Westwood and Louis Vuitton.


We had a brilliant day and once again I was reminded what a blessing my daughter is and just how much I enjoy her company.

Love Liz x

Outfit details
*Maxi dress, Onjenu, SS15
Denim jacket, Boden (several years ago)
Flora sandals, Boden SS15
Silver wrap bracelet AW15, What Lizzy Loves Boutique, £9.50

Blossoming Gifts: A New Flower Delivery Service

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There is little nicer than receiving a bouquet of flowers by post...


...except perhaps when they are accompanied by a cute box of chocolates. 




Blossoming gifts is a new flower delivery company based here in the UK specialising in beautiful florist designs at a low cost. 

This is the Sky bouquet, a gorgeous mix of lilies, roses, purple agapanthus, eryngium and eucalyptus. The scent is divine- the sweetness of the lilies and roses is complimented by the eucalyptus. 
A heady combination. 



The lilies were closed when my flowers arrived so the flowers as a whole looked each different each day as they opened.



Additional gifts are available including balloons, chocolates and vases and there is a range of cheap flowers too (perhaps excellent value, or inexpensive would be a better description), with bouquets and plants costing less than £20.

I am thrilled to say that Blossoming Gifts are offering the readers of What Lizzy Loves a discount of 33% with the discount code BGIFTS33

Love Liz x

My bouquet was a gift from Blossoming Gifts. All opinions are 100% honest and all content is my own. I was not paid to write this blog post.Thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog.

Outfit:Checked Shift Dress and Tweed Jacket

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A gorgeously sunny day today, so I took the opportunity to wear one of my favourite autumn dresses. I've had it for three, possibly four years and I tend to wear it in September and October with tan accessories. We did a little (early Christmas) shopping and browsing and then spent the afternoon in the garden, lopping overhanging branches and giving it a general tidy up. 

I did change my shoes and put wellies on.







Love Liz x

Outfit Details
Checked Dress, Laura Ashley
Jersey Tweed Henford Jacket, Joules
Small Bayswater Satchel, Cookie Cutter in Oak Leather, Mulberry
Steel Blue Patent Flat Mary Jane Shoes with Bow, Mulberry.
Wrap Bracelet in Shades of Gold (left arm), What Lizzy Loves Boutique £9.50
Bracelet (right hand), Pandora.

Beauty: Amphora Aromatics Lavender and Tea Tree Moisturiser

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I love lavender both the scent and as a flower so I was delighted to have been sent some Lavender and Tea Tree Moisturising Face Lotion from Amphora Aromatics which I've been using now for a week.

It's a light and easily absorbed lotion to moisturise, tone and restore skin.
Lavender oil helps to sooth, calm and balance skin and tea tree helps to clear and refresh so would be ideal for blemished skin. It also contains rosehip oil to help rejuvenate and sunflower oil which is rich in vitamin e and helps to lock in moisture and keep skin fresh. 





The lotion is very lightweight and does absorb easily. The scent of the tea tree is a little stronger than the lavender and this attracted my daughter's attention, who uses tea tree oil products and loves the scent, so she too has been trying this lotion.
We are both impressed and are enjoying using this product but I think it is particularly suited to my 14 year old daughter.

I am thrilled to offer readers of my blog a 20% discount using the code BLOG20 on Amphora Aromatics products.

Love Liz x

My Other Amphora Aromatics Reviews
Seaweed and Aloe Refreshing Eye Gel
Lemongrass and Lavender Deodorant

My moisturiser was a gift from Amphora Aromatics. All opinions are 100% honest and all content is my own. I was not paid to write this post. Thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog.

Days Out: "Guardian Angels" Art Installation, Tatton Park

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One of my most read blog posts over the summer was that about our trip to Tatton Park, Cheshire. As a result of this, Adam and I were invited back to take a look at a comtemporary art installation currently housed in the Tatton Park Mansion.

We went on Monday of this week but were told on the gate that The Mansion and farm are closed every Monday (I hadn't thought to check the website). To cut a long story short, the lovely staff opened The Mansion specially and granted a private viewing which was so wonderful, very informative and an utter privilege.

The instillation is by Portuguese artist Cristina Rodrigues, who lives and works in Manchester. 

"Guardian Angels" is inspired by the plight of declining rural communities and the ensuing loss of local traditions. Her art celebrates the role of women in society. 




The contemporary art is juxtaposed beautifully against the neo-classical splendour of the mansion.
"Sea of Shoes" held great appeal to me. Row upon row, they are based on modern working shoes as worn by women in Manchester and inspired by Tatton's large porcelain collection.




"Enlightenment" reflects a fallen chandelier and fallen light and the beads represent enrichment, discovery and the experiences that we gain in layers as we grow.




There are a lot of wall-hangings in different colourways throughout the exhibition, many of which had been crafted by women in rural Portuguese villages using traditional methods.



The kitchen is the heart of the home and Cristina applied an almost literal interpretation by the addition of ceramic hearts sitting on ribbons to show how our hearts connect. The red reflects the blood and energy of the family.
I think this is perhaps the most striking of all, the contrast between traditional and modern at its most apparent.







The staff told us that the exhibition has divided opinion and I can see why. 
At first glance, it can be hard to see what story the artist is telling but each piece is accompanied by a written explanation which adds context and meaning so making it easier to interpret and understand.
Adam and I were still discussing the installation when we went around the gardens, so thought-provoking was it.

It reminded me to look a little closer, look a little deeper and that things aren't always what they first seem.

We love nature, the outdoors and the tranquility afforded by large gardens like those at Tatton and were eager to see how they look in early autumn compared to midsummer when we last visited.


The pears looked almost ready to harvest.


And there were so many windfalls.




The stellate form of these flower skeletons is so beautiful.





And, despite it being slightly damp as my brogues and hair will attest, it was a beautiful autumn day out.




Love Liz x

Huge thanks to the staff of Tatton Park for the complimentary passes and for making us feel so welcome.
"Guardian Angels" runs until 4th October 2015.
www.tattonpark.org.uk
www.cristinarodrigues.co.uk

I'd love you follow me on Instagram for more photographs, many of which are different to those on my blog.
And take a look at Adam's brand new Instagram account too. He took a lot of the photographs in this blog post and is the best personal paparazzo a girl could ask for!

Outfit Details
Green floral dress, Joules, AW14
Navy jersey tweed Henford jacket, Joules SS15
Tan leather brogues, Hamble Oak Clarks AW14
Small Bayswater Satchel in Oak Leather, Mulberry.

Outfit: Grey Roses Top, Coated Skinnies and Snakeprint Lace Up Flats

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It's always a treat to be cooked for, especially during the week and last night, my children and I went to my brother and sister-in-law's for dinner. The last few weeks have been particularly busy with work and other commitments and I have, on two recent occasions, double- booked myself, so last night was very much appreciated. Both are excellent cooks and great company and as always, I feel very very blessed to have such a wonderful family. 

Despite it being quite a sunny day,the evening was quite cool. I opted for shades of grey with snake-print shoes and bracelet.
I have had this top for several years and always enjoy wearing it. The steely blue grey is a shade I love. 







My shoes are the Vibrant lace up flats in black and white snake print from Office, a sale purchase from my shopping trip to Leeds with my daughter last week. They come in a range of prints including leopard which at the time of writing are available in most sizes and are reduced from £60 to £28-£30.
In my opinion, they run a little small to size. Ordinarily, I wear a European size 41 or a UK 7. I needed a UK 8 in this style. They are leather so may give a little if between sizes.

Love Liz x

Outfit Details
Silk grey roses top, Phase Eight
Graphite coated skinnies, Laura Ashley AW14
Black sequin bag, Boden
Vibrant lace up flats, (ghillies) Office £28 in sale SS15
Snake print wrap bracelet, What Lizzy Loves Boutique, AW15, £9.50

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Outfit: Black Broderie Dress with Snakeprint Lace-Up Flats

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I had a fab night out with the girls last night but not before taking my son and his friend to football training which is where these photographs were taken. Time was of the essence, so being already dressed for the night, plus wearing flat shoes ensured my speediest arrival at the cocktail bar once I'd taken the children home.
The accessories are identical to what I wore with a grey silk top and jeans the previous night, the snake print on the shoes and bracelet complimenting each other nicely. 






Love Liz x

Outfit Details
Broderie tunic dress, Next SS15
Black sequin bag, Boden
Vibrant lace up flats, (ghillies) Office £28 in sale SS15
Snake print wrap bracelet, What Lizzy Loves Boutique, AW15, £9.50

My shoes are the "Vibrant" lace up flats in black and white snake print from OfficeThey come in a range of prints including leopard which at the time of writing are available in most sizes and are reduced from £60 to £28-£30.

The Little Black Dress Through the Decades

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I'm currently working on the November issue of local magazine Aspire including my fashion column which is about party wear. 

In a timely co-incidence, I saw this infographic depicting iconic LBDs through the decades and it served to remind me what a true fashion classic it is.

Being fond of 1920s and 1960s fashion, Coco Chanel and Audrey Hepburn's hold the greatest appeal to me from this selection.


I have a party coming up at the end of October,  the 18th birthday party of my god-daughter, so I took the opportunity to indulge in a little browsing and trying on, and to do some magazine research when shopping in Leeds a week or so ago.

I've shopped at Coast for many years for wedding outfits and for party wear so this was where I headed.
The window looked stunning.


They have an array of LBDs and plenty of alternatives, including jumpsuits, something which looks set to stay having been popular for the last few seasons.


There was also a wonderful range of separates and accessories too. These in soft tones appeal to my romantic nature and would make a beautiful party, wedding or Christmas outfit.


I took a lot of ideas for my fashion column which I will share here when the magazine is out in print and I also decided on my party outfit.

Love Liz x
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