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jeans

Fashion

My tips for flattering denim

22nd October, 2023

A great pair of jeans is an essential in my wardrobe as they’re often a go-to for me whether I’m after a casual look for the weekend or a dressy outfit for work. I’m often on the hunt for new additions to my denim collection and I’m one to spend a lot of time looking around and trying on different styles to find the perfect pair. When it comes to denim these are my rules for ensuring I always end up with the most flattering fit.

Get them tailored

It’s important that jeans are always the right length for a polished finish—don’t just let them pool at the bottom near your ankles. I always make sure to get them taken up professionally. If you’re petite and hate losing the original hem of your jeans you can pay a little bit extra when you have them altered and often the tailor can reattach it for you.

The right fit

There are so many different styles out there when it comes to denim so it’s important to try as many as you can to find the right pair for you. Just keep these things in mind…

  • If you’re going for a skinny leg that they are tight all the way down and fitted at the leg and not loose around the ankle. A cropped or ankle length is the most flattering length when it comes to skinny jeans.
  • Boyfriend jeans are designed to be baggy but ensure that they don’t look to overwhelming—they should be slightly loose around the thighs but still taper down to the ankle.
  • If you’re going to wear a boot leg or wide leg they should definitely be cropped to suit the shoes you’ll wear with them most. If you need to get them taken up bring your heels in with you to the tailor to make sure it’s cut to the right length and the hem isnt dragging on the floor.
Go for the most snug fit

I find denim always tends to “give” a little when you wear it repeatedly so to avoid my jeans getting too baggy I always make sure I get the most snug fit I can. By snug, obviously go for a size that you can still comfortably button up as you don’t want to cut yourself off at the waist and end up with a muffin top. It should feel firm but not overly tight.

My denim go-tos

Skinny leg jeans are my number one pick when it comes to denim as it works with my petite frame. I always go for a lighter wash for casual wear and darker for a dressier look. I will do a ripped effect during the day and non-ripped at night. I also light straight leg styles which end just near my ankle as I find they’re a great piece to work back with dressy pieces such as a blazer or basic staples like white t-shirt.

Fashion, Fashion & Beauty

Great alternatives to try when you’re tired of wearing jeans

12th March, 2023

I wholeheartedly admit that I’m in jeans a lot of the time but there are times when I look in my wardrobe and think that I want to be comfortable but I just don’t feel like putting denim on. A great pair of jeans is always a failsafe option, but sometimes I just want to mix it up and try something else without having to compromise on comfort. So, what do I do then? Well I have a go-to alternatives to jeans that are equally as stylish, effortless and perfect for days on the go…

Culottes

I’ve found that the billowy, relaxed silhouette of a pair of culottes such as the pair above is one of the comfiest things you can wear. Wear them with a shirt or tee, tucked in or out, and pair with everything from sneakers to heels, slides or flats. So versatile and effortless too.

Cropped chinos

Chinos have always been a handy staple to have but a cropped version of the style feels a lot fresher and more modern. You can easily dress them up or down which makes them ideal for workwear or a relaxing weekend.

Tapered jogger

These have all the comfort of a pair of tracksuit pants but infinitely more stylish. A tapered jogger looks great for days when you want to wear something simple and unfussy yet remain stylish and comfortable at the same time. You can easily throw on a great knit or pop on a casual trench over them and look put together.

Tailored pants

This style has been a workhorse in my wardrobe because not only are they really versatile, but they always look polished. I also like them because they’re super comfy, which is perfect if I’m doing the shift between mum mode and work mode on any given day. 

Leggings are one way to look stylish and be comfortable at the same time

Leggings

I live in leather leggings throughout winter as I’ve found them so easy to wear with everything in my closet. I can easily pair them with a blazer or a knit and be ready to walk out the door with minimum fuss. If leather leggings aren’t your thing, I think the silhouette is still great in other fabrications, just be sure to look for a thick, sturdy material that will retain its shape. If there’s one thing that’s a no-no it’s saggy leggings.

Midi skirt

When I’m in the mood for something a little more feminine but still equally as comfortable I opt for a midi skirt. One of my favourites is a knitted midi skirt which I’ve found to be really wearable and perfect for days on the go. It’s a great way to do casual dressing in a more elevated way.

Wide leg pants

I’m a huge fan of wide leg pants simply because they’re effortlessly stylish, making them an easy option when I want to style an outfit quickly. That said, there’s nothing quite as comfortable as a pair of billowy pants so I would definitely recommend them when you want something super easy to wear, that still looks polished.

A midi skirt is a feminine way to do casual dressing

 

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Fashion

New ways to wear denim this week

4th September, 2022

I would honestly be lost without denim in my wardrobe. I’m in jeans multiple times a week as it’s the perfect pant to dress up or down without too much fuss. I’ve been known to go from pairing denim with a white tee one minute to a dressy top the next as it’s the ultimate chameleon—it can easily work for multiple occasions.

I’ve shared my tips on buying denim in the past as I think it’s such an essential part of any woman’s wardrobe. Once you’ve found the perfect jeans you’ll never look back. However I’m also loving denim’s various incarnations. Whether it’s a skirt, a lightweight jacket or shirt, there’s no denying that I’ve got a serious case of the blues. So if you’re like me and want a hit of inspo to kickstart your love affair with denim this week then look no further…

 

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Distressed denim features in a lot of women’s wardrobes but don’t relegate it to being just a casual staple. You can easily dress ripped jeans up by pairing it with a button down shirt and statement flats. Cute tote optional.

 

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A denim skirt is a weekend favourite of mine but this look has me rethinking its purpose. Pop on a blazer and a pair of sandals and you’re instantly in polished territory.

 

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You can never ever go wrong with a white shirt and jeans. Tie up your shirt for a more casual look or tuck it in to keep it looking for pulled together. Now that the weather is warming up, it’s time to dust off your favourite slides as they’re a dream pairing with denim.

 

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A denim jacket is one of my must-have trans-seasonal pieces as they’re so easy to throw on over an outfit. Pair it with a dress, skirt, shorts, you name it.

 

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Just because I love jeans so much I often like to find dressier pieces that I can pair with them so I have an excuse to wear them to an event. A simple jacket thrown over jeans can easily take it into more polished territory with minimal fuss.

 

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Denim on denim (on denim in this case!) can be tricky to pull off but Elle Ferguson manages to make it look easy. Look for graduating shades for a cool ombre effect.

 

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One of my favourite go-tos is a feminine blouse/top and jeans. It seriously doesn’t get any easier than that. I’d pair a look like this with heels and I’m ready to go out.

How are you loving styling denim at the moment?

Fashion

The fresh winter outfit combination that’s so easy to do

14th July, 2022

Winter brings with it so many different outfit combination options but one of my current faves is so easy, wearable and a great outfit formula to have on hand when you just can’t bear to think about what winter warmers you’re going to put on again.

Of course, I’m talking about the foolproof ensemble of a cardi and jeans. Yes, no longer is the cardigan something that is relegated for popping on when you’re pottering around the house or a quick easy throw on piece, it’s now a bonafide fashion staple. While it remains ever so effortless, its current incarnation does look ridiculously cute.

Step one in putting this outfit together is make sure you’ve got the right kind of cardi. You want something cropped or something that just sits at the waist, this gives you the option of wearing it as is, or tucking it in — both work well. After that the sky’s the limit. Go for big, bold colours, loads of embellishments or an elegant neutral, either way all options are ideal.

As far as denim goes, there’s really no way to go wrong with this one. I usually opt for a high waisted pair in a slim or straight cut. Blue, black, white… the wash is up to you. But I do have a soft spot for a crisp white denim worked back with a colourful cardi. It looks modern and fresh.

So, if you’re looking for your next winter outfit formula to add on high rotation, this is most definitely it. It’s perfect for keeping you cosy, it’s a great alternative to the ol’ jumper and jeans combination you’ve no doubt been wearing on repeat, and it looks ultra polished too. Win-win.

 

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Fashion

The super affordable jeans that I always get DMs about

1st April, 2021

Without fail, every time I wear my Levis 501s skinny jeans I will get an influx of DMs on Instagram asking me what brand they are. They’re honestly my favourite pair of jeans and have worn them so much that I’ve actually grabbed myself another pair, that’s how often I wear them.

I’m usually quite picky with jeans, as the wash needs to be juuuust the right shade of blue, the cut flattering and the fabric has to be sturdy so it holds its shape. The thing with skinny jeans is if the fabric is too thin, they lose their shape quite quickly and that’s when you’re left to contend with sagging at the knees, or the fit isn’t right anymore. But I’ve found Levi’s hold up really well. The denim is quite thick and a little more rigid which makes for a better silhouette.

I recently decided to introduce another member of the Levi’s family to my denim collection. My original pair are in the Tango Light wash and I’ve found them to be a great colour to mix and match with various hues, but while they’re able to be dressed up or down, they do tend to err more on the casual side. I wanted to have another option that was slightly dressier so I went with another pair of 501 skinny jeans , but this time in the Jive Night wash. I think having both the light and dark option opens up a lot of outfit opportunities, particularly this winter when there’s no doubt I’ll be working them back with blazers, coats, jackets… the list is pretty much endless. I’m already anticipating the DMs about this new addition!

Which wash do you prefer? Which denim brand is your go-to?

Fashion

Non-skinny jeans options I’m loving

10th March, 2021

There has been much said about skinny jeans of late, with Gen Z declaring them cancelled (along with side parts, just FYI). While I’m all for wearing the kind of jeans style that works with your wardrobe, shape and style, if you are on the look out for other alternatives then you’ll be pleased to heat there are are more than a few options to consider.

I tend to gravitate towards straight leg styles now, along with cropped wide leg options which look great with a sandal or heel. I’ve found the former to be a real wardrobe staple for me now as they both work back with so many different styles of top, particularly a white t-shirt, which is a constant wardrobe MVP for me.

But the options don’t end there. There’s still the classic boyfriend style which is ideal for an off duty look, while the mom jean style is a great hybrid between boyfriend and straight and works for so many different occasions.

So if you’re looking to update your denim wardrobe, here are a few styles to consider.

Fashion, Fashion & Beauty

The wardrobe items I’m currently using the most

2nd October, 2019

I’m the first to admit I often play favourites when it comes to my wardrobe. There are just some pieces that are constantly on rotation for me at the moment because they just work with everything I own and are great for instantly dressing up a look. And sometimes I just get into a certain vibe when it comes to my outfits and the following pieces work beautifully with the aesthetic I’m going for. Here are the few that are currently at the top of my list…

501 Levis Skinny Jeans

I like the fact that these jeans are a little tapered but still tap into the trend for a more relaxed fit. They’re also a great wash and are able to be dressed up or down whether I’m in the mood to wear a white t-shirt or a beautiful blazer.

Chanel Gabrielle Backpack

I can’t really go past a beautiful Chanel bag and whilst I’m a big fan of their classic 2.55 style, this backpack is also right up there for me. Not only does it look elegant but it’s also utilitarian and can hold all my essentials and still leave me hands free — perfect for travelling or when I’ve got a busy day of running errands.

CC Logo Pink Suede Sneaker

I pretty much live in sneakers so I’m so in love with this pair for the fun pink shade and the on trend shape. Plus who can resist a comfy shoe that also ticks all the style boxes! This is one investment piece that I’m definitely maximising the cost per wear on.

Sparrows Weave The Round Wicker and Leather Top Handle Bag

Beautiful wicker bags are a go-to accessory this season and I do love the shape of this bag for its simplicity and relaxed elegance. I’ve loved being able to wear it on holiday with casual summer dresses and with more dressy ensembles. A versatile piece that I know I’ll be using non-stop this summer.

Giuseppe Zanotti Farrah Heels

I’ve been wearing these shoes to events and with work ensembles of late because it’s such an easy, wearable style that goes with virtually everything. Whilst it’s a great black heel, I love the crystal detail which elevates it and gives it a striking detail that sets it apart.

Aquazzura Deneuve 105 Bow-Embellished Suede Pumps

I often refresh my shoe wardrobe with a new black pump every season and this pair by Aquazzura has been such a great buy. I’ve worn it with jeans to dresses and suits so it’s a definite style chameleon. A heel that definitely ticks all the boxes.

Fashion

On a budget…denim

21st August, 2019

Denim. It’s a constant in my wardrobe and is something that I wear multiple times a week. Given I tend to live in jeans most days I like to have a few pairs on hand so I can mix things up a bit. Also I find wearing my fave pair constantly will inevitably result in it losing shape so its best to have a couple of different options to give each pair a break. Purchasing denim these days can be expensive, so I’ve found that there are a fews ways to ensure that you don’t blow your entire fashion budget on jeans, and here are some of them…

Stock up at sale time

The most obvious way to save money on denim is to wait till it has been reduced in price. But before sale time even hits, it pays to do a little research into what pairs you want to snap up. Go in store and try on a few different brands and styles. Once you’ve narrowed down what you want, take note and pounce once brands and retailers start slashing their prices. Be on the look out at specific times like the Black Friday sales, Click Frenzy, different brands’ spend and sale events, Afteryay and end of financial year and after Christmas time.

Hit up chain stores

Premium denim can cost upwards of $200 which is a pretty significant investment for jeans. If your budget doesn’t allow, you can find some great options at most chain stores. Brands like Country Road, Cotton On and Seed stock a number of styles that rival most of the cuts that you’d find from denim brands, but at a fraction of the price.

Buy multiples

Finding the right jeans is no easy feat so once you do find them consider snapping up another pair. This allows you to have more than one in rotation, which can help with the longevity of your denim. If you’re able to alternate the days you wear a particular pair of jeans rather than wearing them regularly you can extend its shelf life, which in turn stretches out the time frame in which you might have to spend on another pair. To save even more money, wait till they go on sale so you can also get them at a reduced price.

Scour consignment sites

You can find gently worn designer jeans on sites such as The Real Real and Vestiaire Collective, which whilst not new are still in great condition. Away from consignment sites you could also hit up eBay which if you have a discerning eye and the time to devote to your search, has always been a reliable source for pre-owned clothes.

Fashion

Simple ways to elevate denim

27th June, 2018

I am the first to admit that I would be lost without denim in my wardrobe. Jeans often make an appearance in many an outfit that I wear throughout the week and it’s a staple when I’m in off duty/mum mode as it’s just so easy. That said, I can also attest for how simple it is to elevate it with the right accessories and statement pieces and make it ideal for an event or a special occasion.

When it comes to denim I’m a skinny jeans girl all the way as I think it works best with my frame. However with the numerous styles available out there it’s not difficult to hone in on the ideal style for you—it just pays to persevere and check out a few different cuts (check out my tips for buying denim here) as what works for one person may not work for another. I also tend to gravitate towards a formfitting style as I find it works with most of my go-to items in my wardrobe. All my jackets to blazers, shirts and heels all work back with a pair of skinnies.

While jeans, a white tee and sneakers are an eternally stylish combination it can sometimes be hard to think beyond that and see how to dress up denim in a modern way that doesn’t require too much fussing around. I think elevating your it is a simple as it comes if you know the right pieces to turn to. Once you’ve pinpointed those key items you’re guaranteed to always find a way to turn your old faithfuls into something special.

Killer shoes

Great shoes can make any outfit look great. A pair of amazing heels teamed with denim can instantly make it look dressy and polished.

Printed blouse

Swap out your fave tee for a blouse instead. This is a great combination that works dressed up or down—all you have to do is switch your shoes according to the occasion.

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Statement jacket

One way to lift trusty denim that requires minimal effort? Turn to the most amazing jacket in your closet. Whether it’s a tweed number or an edgy leather moto style you can never go wrong with outwear that pops.

Classic blazer

I can attest for how unbelievably handy blazers are to have in your style arsenal. And while they go with most things in my wardrobe they’re a dream to pair with denim. A simple black blazer can really turn jeans into something special. Add a pair of knockout earrings and you’re done.

Understated flats

A pair of loafers is a no-brainer pairing with jeans. When you want to be comfortable to run around all day but still need to maintain an element of polish, stylish flats will fit the bill every time.

Fashion

A life well spent with Marks & Spencer

7th August, 2017

Things can undoubtedly get hectic and busy at times but if there’s one thing I’ve learnt it’s that the key to a well-lived life is making time for small everyday pleasures. This is why I was happy to team up with Marks and Spencer on their latest campaign that aims to encourage everyone to live life fully and spend it well. I’m a big believer that that you only get one shot at living so it’s important to prioritise the things that matter. I’ve learnt not to always save things for a “special occasion” but to ensure that each day is spent in the very best way possible.

For me, my family, is my entire world so spending time with my girls is one of the most meaningful things I can do. I always prioritise being with Sophia and Grace whether it’s spending time playing together outdoors or chatting over breakfast or reading them a story at night. Everything always seems just that little bit better when I’m with them.

What’s a life well spent without treating myself to the little things that put a smile on my face? My daily ritual of walking to my favourite café and buying coffee is a must. It’s a small thing but it helps kick off my day and puts me in the right frame of mind. Also, it’s a definite treat but I always buy flowers for my home. It doesn’t have to be a big over the top bunch but I think a lovely bouquet of blooms in the house is always a nice reminder to treat myself to the things that enrich my surroundings.

It goes without saying that fashion is a big passion of mine so it does feature heavily in my life and it means that I’m always prepared to invest a little bit more in my wardrobe and prioritise quality over quantity. I’d rather spend money on pieces that will last. This is why the denim range at Marks & Spencer really resonated with me, especially for someone that lives in jeans. There are plenty of options in the range so I’m always guaranteed to find something that suits my aesthetic, is crafted well, and at a reasonable price point plus as a bonus it’s delivered really quickly. I actually ended up buying the mum and skinny styles as I couldn’t resist either one. They’re both stylish, fit well and are comfortable (a must with two girls to chase after). And I have to say, there’s nothing like the feeling of slipping on a brand new pair of jeans and taking it out on its very first outing to put a smile on my face!

Over the years I’ve adopted the mindset to make the most of every moment. I’m all about prioritising quality in every aspect of my life. I spend less of my time on the things that don’t matter and spend more of it focusing on the things that do. And ultimately isn’t that what living is all about?

Shop my look: Trench Coat, Mom Jeans, Loafers, T-shirt, Biker Jacket, White Shirt, Boyfriend Jeans 

This post was created in collaboration with Marks & Spencer