How to Style Wide Leg Trousers - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Good morning everyone

How are you all today?

Well isn't the weather awful here?  Nothing but cold wind and dreary skies, it's hard to think it's the 1st day of June!  I'm doubting we'll have any sort of decent Summer which makes me sad.  I can't even look forward to a holiday of sunshine because both David and I want to concentrate on building the new house.  I've got so many lovely Summer dresses and sandals to enjoy wearing, but all I feel like putting on are trousers, long sleeves and warm jackets like this outfit I wore yesterday for an afternoon out with friends. I had in mind this pretty dress but just could not get my legs out - even if the weather was accommodating my legs haven't had any sun are a paler shade of white and in the cold they'd have a pretty 'mottled' tinge to them ... lol! I seriously need to get some fake tan on - any recommendations?

Anyway more about my ensemble.  I had in mind to wear the trousers once I'd decided a dress would be too cold.  I popped them on and headed to the wardrobe for a shirt.  My hand fell upon this one and I figured the colours would work with my black faux leather.  I toyed with black heels too, but ended up with these lighter coloured feminine heels and matching padded bag, read on for all the deets!

Style Not Age - Frilled to Bits.

Hi there. 

How are you and have you had a good week?

Finally starting to feel like me.  It's been a busy week, but nice to be back doing the things I love.

Dancing on Friday was great, we learnt the Rumba and I mastered the steps well, but mastering the technique is another story.  I don't think I'll ever get that right.  I have to admit I really wished I taken up this kind of dancing years ago, I love everything about it, from the different movements to the sequins on the outfits, with the tans and makeup making everything look magnificent.  Shame I only get to wear my usual clothes when I go.  The club does run dance events where students can practice what's been learnt, but I never go to any of these are I don't want to go on my own and not have a partner for all the dances.  I'll have to settle with my 3/4 hour each week and imagine I'm competing ... lol!

Saturday I had Max overnight, I have to say he was an angel, he really did settle well with me and considering I don't ever get a look-in when he comes over I was so happy - he was so good so I'm hoping we've turned a corner and he'll be my friend from now on!

Sunday was good weather so I went to my eldest daughters for a BBQ.  It was lovely to spend time with the kids playing on the trampoline and 'trying' to play football with them.  Kids do keep you young don't they, and I feel in my head about 20! Ha the body says otherwise though! Downside was the wind.  The sun was shining and had it not been so blowy it would have been brilliant to sit in the sun, but It got so cold we ended up indoors.  I neglected to take a coat or jacket too, so walking home was really chilly so I reached for my furry blanket for the rest of the night.  What did you get up to over the weekend?

Today has yet to be decided, but what I did decide on early in the week was my outfit for the Style not Age challenge. We looked to Anna for our prompt and although at first I didn't know what to style I eventually came up with this easy to wear wrap dress for the monthly challenge.

Frilled to bits.

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Everyday Casual - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hi there.

Hope you are okay.

Just about starting to feel normal after the busy week I've had.  Another birthday yesterday so a celebration with drinks, Chinese and some delicious Rocky Road made by my daughter.  Yeah don't mention the diet please ... lol

I seem to have got my zest back for blogging and 'graming and have created some photos to use on both platforms.  It's been good to hear feed back from fellow bloggers and Instagramers alike stating they've felt just like I did and what they did about it, it's been helpful to read and actually know I'm not the only one!  I've also been back to the gym and this ALWAYS makes me feel better.  Well doesn't exercising release natural endorphins???  I'm also returning to Ballet after my couple of weeks off, last week I just didn't feel 100% so decided to give it a miss, I've also been away from ballroom dancing too, the first wasn't my fault, but the second session was the club was closed - it's back on this Friday, and I can't wait.

Are you like me and keep special things for special occasions? 

Suits Me!

Hello everyone.

Hope you are well and had a lovely weekend.

Mine was rather different than normal as David has been away on the 'Stag' weekend with all the boys.

It's been really rather strange having him away for so long especially after my weekend with the girls and a busy week in between I feel I've not seen him in ages. I think we'll plan a few nice things to do together over the next few weeks and we have a voucher to use in a local restaurant that we need to make a booking for so that will be nice for us both!

Whilst David was away I spent a lot of time with the girls, watched some girly TV including Queen Charlotte (from Bridgerton) - have you seen it?  If you liked Bridgeton, you'll love it! I caught up with a couple of girl friends and finished up a few jobs that had been 'waiting' to be done.  That always makes me feel better to get jobs sorted that have been laying around for ages.  I did a couple of sewing jobs, trimmed the hedge and cut the grass and sorted through my emails.  I feel I've accomplished quite a lot over the past few days and feel pleased with myself.  I did have one of those headaches though, the ones that stay very much uninvited for a few days.

I mentioned above I met my friends for lunch on Saturday.  We met in town and had a lovely lunch in a local restaurant.  I decided to drive so had a couple of soda waters along with a yummy fish finger sandwich.  It was great to sit and chat in the sun and as we'd picked a restaurant with a sheltered garden the temperature was really warm and I'd almost wished I worn something lighter.  Upon walking along to another venue I was pleased I'd picked this suit because the wind was really quite chilly!   

Saturday was the perfect opportunity to show off my neutral two piece, you might remember when I styled it with citrus orange it really did make the colour pop!

Belated Birthday and My new Teddy Blake Bag - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Morning me friends.

I hope you are well.

So sorry for no post on Monday, after the weekend away and a couple of family issues I just couldn't get myself going ... plus the fact it was my birthday.  I got some amazing gifts and cards (love getting and reading cards) & had a super Indian in the evening with the kids and my mum.  You might remember me saying it was my grandaughters birthday the following day and then my son's the day after so it's been full on.  David is away on the 'stag' today, so I've made sure everything is ready for him and also my youngest son who's going too.  I'm looking forward to a quiet couple of days with the controller to catch up of girly telly ... Lol!

Last weekend was good fun and I'm working on a post so I can share some of the antics with you.  I'll also be sharing a couple of new dresses with you but today I wanted to show off another bag from the stunning collection of Teddy Blake.  I'd love you to check back to my older post sharing the stunning pink Lola bag too, it's such a pretty colour and a useful size bag.

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Hen Weekend to Majorca - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hello there and welcome to the blog.

Hope you’re doing well and have had a super week. 

I’ve planned this post in advance as today I’m on my way to Majorca (after the early departure of 1.30 am I’m probably there now)!

If you remember I’m on a hen weekend for my nephews wife-to-be. There’s about 17 of us including my three daughters and my daughter-in-law so will be good fun to be away together without the grandkids. I managed to get everything sorted by Tuesday, with just my spray tan on Wednesday just before I got a few hours sleep before the very early start!  It’s like a marathon getting everything ready for a trip away even for a couple of days like this!

You can imagine the chats we've been having and we've also also got a Whatsapp group to find out what everyone its wearing, thinking and doing etc.  It's been on fire the last few days and has got us all very excited to get away with the right stuff.  Does anyone else have a specific group for things like this?

Today I thought I’d share what I’m taking. We’ve opted for a carry-on case, so I’m packing light - very light lol!

This is what I wanted to wear, but I’m actually in jeans, sandals and a hen T Shirt!

Red, White & Blue for the Coronation.

Hi there,

Welcome to the blog.

Happy Bank Holiday Monday, sounding very familiar doesn’t it the second one in a couple of weeks! 😂

How did your weekend go? I’ve had a ball. 

Dancing on Friday night was brilliant, I’ve been away from it for a few weeks so it was great to get back onto the dance floor. It was the second week of the Foxtrot and fortunately it didn’t take long for me to pick it up and get into the swing of it. It’ll be finished off next Friday, but again I’ll be away in Majorca for a hen party and the following week the club is shut, so another few weeks away from my much loved hobby. 

On Saturday, after a quick trip to the shops to get some bits for the aforementioned Hen weekend I got home in time to watch the Coronation of King Charles. 

What an amazing event to see and at times I was quite emotional! I love all the pomp and ceremony and am very proud to be British and have all this history. Did you watch the events unfold, do let me know if you’re a fan too!

I also had a 30th birthday party in the evening. It’s my son’s birthday this month and his wife was also 30 in April, so they decided on a double celebration. It was such good fun seeing all the family friends and extended family. Plenty of drinks and food and lots of familiar songs to dance the night away too, opps upside your head was one of the golden oldies (those over a certain age will remember this one - lol).  My legs felt awful the next day, as did my head and tummy (but the Prosecco tasted good!)  You may remember I said they got married there too. It was in lockdown so they were only allowed 15 people, it was wonderful for them to celebrate their 30th’s there as it really did make up for the wedding celebrations they missed out on.  

As you can imagine Sunday was a lazy day although I did get a few jobs done, in the afternoon I just vegged out on the sofa watching TV.  No cooking for me as fortunately, a takeaway was on the menu - perfect. 

Today all the family will be round for the roast turkey I had got for Easter (remember I went skiing over Easter),

All the traditional accompaniments will be on offer so it’ll be a busy morning getting all that ready, especially after two gym classes!  What have you got planned for today?

Beige & Rust - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Morning everyone.

Hope you are all well.

Creeping into May aren't we!  I've got a busy couple of weekends, followed by another spate of birthdays so I'm sure the next few weeks will fly by.

This weekend, which is the Royal Coronation of Prince Charles will also be a double 30th birthday party.  My son and his wife are both thirty this year and as their wedding, which was in lockdown was at Brooke Park & was limited to 15 people. So they’ve chosen to have a big birthday party there so everyone who couldn’t come to their wedding can enjoy it. 

After the celebrations on Saturday there's going to be further celebrations at the party.  I'm excited to be there as all the family will be together along with the extended family and friends so it’s sure to be a fun night.  I'll share my outfit with you next week - although I've not decided what to wear yet!

I reckon Sunday will be a slow day with not much happening, however on Monday I'm doing the belated Easter roast turkey dinner and all the family will be joining me.  Maybe I'll have to prepare everything on Sunday to make it a little easier for David and me the following day!

What have you got planned this weekend?  Do share. 

If you follow me on Instagram, you might have seen I was having a bit of a downer a few weeks ago and kept asking myself why was I following this path of blogging and sharing on IG, and whether or not I was good enough, that it was making me miserable so should I give it up, etc etc etc.  You get the picture as I know many of you have struggled with this at one time or another.  I had some extremely helpful and positive comments and messages, some from people I hardly know who all expressed their support and telling me how they've felt and how I would be best advised to treat my negativity.  

I can honestly say I was elated at all the lovely things people said and all of the messages were really very helpful.  I know why I'm doing this, it's for me!  Everyone made me feel worthy and that I was doing something worthwhile to them and to me.  I know I've felt like this in the past and shared my thoughts and feelings on here too, which also really helped me.  So for everyone following I want to say a huge thank you, which, without question, extends to my close family who have been by by my side supporting me throughout.

So after that little hiccup I picked myself up and got back into taking my own photos more, it's still a work in progress as I don't feel my pictures are 100% but I'm happy with that.  Everything I write about is from the heart and what I believe in, so if I've written it, that's genuinely how I feel.  I also only share my style, I'm not fake and only have photos taken in something I would wear - this is me and I'm proud of how far I've come.  

With all that being said let's share a look I wore earlier this week, this beige skirt with a rust blouse and boots.

April Review.

Hi there everyone.

Thanks for stopping by today.

Can you believe it's the first of May?  Where does the time go?

It's Bank Holiday for us here in the UK, and I've not got much planned.  David is working on the new build and I have booked gym classes as usual today, but not sure what we'll be getting up to this afternoon.

Have you got something nice planned for today, do let me know what you're doing.

So as usual at the beginning of the new month I like to take a look back over the previous weeks and recap on what I've been wearing and what I've been doing - stand by for the April Review.

Without further delay shall we dive right in?

I started April sharing some Spring dresses.  I picked up these three stunners in Matalan and any of them will be suitable for summer holidays or special events - I've only got one wedding this year but not sure these are quite what I had in mind, this one especially as I would never try to upstage the bride and wear white! Hop over to the post to see the other choices.

How I acquired this H & M dress - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Morning all. 

How are you?

It’s David’s birthday today, so will have a little celebration with the family later. Maybe a takeaway (if I have my way) which will be nice and easy. He’ll have to take a night off from working on the new build, which I’m sure he won’t like! 😕

Anyway, the week of birthdays has gone well so far, my eldest daughter’s on Sunday (she’s the one I borrowed this dress from), my daughter-in-law’s was Tuesday and they went away on a little holiday so haven't seen her and one on Friday which will be my SIL’s, so a very busy and expensive week for Mummab! Only a couple of weeks and there’s another spate - one very important birthday is included in that lot … mine!  Do you have runs of birthdays at the same time?

So let’s talk dresses, I’ve got lots hanging on my clothes rail, too many for my dressing room and lots of them I don’t wear anymore so top of my list is to go through them and sorting them out! It’s a mammoth job I keep putting off, but plan to maybe next week. 🤷🏻‍♀️

But this one which I acquired from my middle daughter is definitely staying. I spotted this chic design on an Instagram’er I follow and tried to find it last year. It’s from H & M and was out of stock when I checked, I set about tracking it down on Vinted and Ebay, and even resorted to Facedbook Marketplace! Alas I didn’t find it. It’s a Richard Allen design and H&M often has a sets of clothing in one design that’s always very eye catching. Anyway fast forward to last week, my daughter was putting some clothes on Vinted and low and behold this was one of them, she’d had it all the time and I was elated, just one problem - would I get it one! As you can see the answer was yes and doesn’t it look great on!

Style Not Age share 'Bring Me Sunshine' Outfits.

Hi there.

How's everyone doing?

I've been a bit behind with getting the blog posts ready and didn't even look at today's challenge until early last week!

The prompt, which was set by Emma - Style Splash, came to her whilst sitting on a bench in the garden. So with the weather being wet and damp and the worst in some places in March since records started, we all wanted to jump onboard and try to get the sunshine to stay. 

Bring me Sunshine is April's Style Not Age challenge.

Once the prompt was loaded into my brain, this outfit just seemed to come together. You see I don't have much yellow in my wardrobe except an handful of pieces including these sunny trousers that I've worn on the blog before with my sheer blouse, with a bit of sparkle and teamed with grey.

So what did I think of when I heard the prompt?  Well firstly all I could think of was the old duo Morecombe and Wise.  They were a comedy double who were all over the TV screens and theatres in the 70's and their signature piece was dancing to the tune 'Bring me Sunshine' in the finale of the show.  Do check out the duo who are similar and just as popular to today's Ant and Dec. 

Secondly, and more importantly wearing sunny tones come to mind, so I wanted yellow to take centre stage, and I feel I've achieved that - do let me know what you think.

As I said before I don't have many pieces that are summery yellow and decided to see what my daughters had that I could borrow, I remembered my eldest had a striking golden pleated dress so I asked to see if it fitted me and if I could use it, hooray it did and she obviously said yes, so here's my offering for today's challenge.

Skiing Insurance & Fun Times - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hi there,

Welcome to the blog today.

Hope your week is going well.

It's been a funny week for me and the main silly reason is my computer.  I mentioned last week that it's stopped working so has been sent off to be, hopefully, repaired!  Fingers, legs and toes crossed ... lol.

I've been lucky enough to use David's and also my daughters, but with them being so different to mine it's been quite hard work.  It's almost been like learning everything from scratch.  Having to add the linkup, adding to Mailchimp, loading photos to the computer and then trying to find where they are stored have all been a bit of a nightmare to be honest.  I've managed to finish off last Thursday's post and Mondays post was brand new.  It's taken a lot longer than usual but fortunately it's published okay, so I'm feeling a bit more positive about it now.  David and Sophie will be finding my photos on their computers when I'm back to mine, I'm sure they'll be popping up in all sorts of places ... lol!

I checked up on all our insurances.

So do you recall I managed to get away for a cheeky weekend skiing?

Daivd and I travelled down to Valmorel in the French Alps one Friday a couple of weekends ago and returned on the following Monday.  It was Easter weekend so missed out on the celebrations with the family, but I've made it up to them by doing an Easter Egg Hunt last weekend with a wonderful roast beef dinner.  We're also having the whole family over on the Coronation weekend when we'll be having the roast turkey we've frozen since Christmas (we buy two for that very reason!)

This post is sponsored, but all the content is my own honest comments.

Styling my Izabel Animal Print Tiered Dress.

Hi there.

How you all doing?

Back to normal after my wonderful little weekend away, but I seem to come back with the holiday blues more than ever now-a-days!  Is that normal as we get older?  I have to give myself a good talking to and say I've been lucky enough to get away and enjoy the memories.  I've also been a bit lack lustre with the Instagram side of Mummabstylish.  Sometimes it just makes me so miserable.  It's such hard work keeping up with posting, liking and commenting and I really don't feel I'm getting anywhere!  The algorithm seems to be all over the place and I don't know what's best to post, when to post and how the hell do I get more followers?  I've had a good chat with my daughter, which always helps and I've resorted to moaning on here to you lot ... sorry about that! 

So moaning aside let's get the post under way.

Today I thought I’d tell you about my love for dresses and this sheer and delicate long dress I was recently gifted by Izabel Clothing*.  I've got several of their dresses and have worn them for weddings and special occasions over the past year, you can view this striking pink and white pleated version here, wearing my long blue maxi & here a black and cream shirt dress with heels.

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Watercolour Shirt and Faux Leather Skirt - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hello it's so lovely to have you here.

Have you had a great week?

I'm back down to earth and really starting to feel like wanting Spring to arrive.

I've just got back from my little weekend skiing (post to follow) and have had the best time with David.

The builders are also back, so the new build is steaming ahead again.  We're starting to think about roof joists (do I sound like I know what I'm talking about) so the shell is nearly up!

I have to apologise for the lateness of this posts, you see when I opened up my computer last night, it decided not to work.  I left it alone as it was late, and opened it up again this morning - alas it's still not working and I feel like my hands have been cut off!  David has very kindly let me use his, so all being well this will be my saviour until mine is fixed!

So let's talk about today's outfit.  I've long been a fan of Salamander Shirts and quite often feature one on the blog, you can see this pretty floral with dark jeans here, my pretty pale blue pinstripe here and this leopard print classic here to name but a few.  I've also shared a stunning peacock one as well! 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me however, these are 100% my own honest comments.

Regatta Waterproof Jacket and Graphic T - Shirt.

Hi there.

All okay with you?

If things have gone to plan, this post will publish and I'll be travelling home from my long weekend in The Alps.

David and I managed to squeeze a weekend away skiing using up an old Eurotunnel ticket that was to be used before lock-down.  Does anyone else wonder just how we managed to lock ourselves away from our family and friends for so long!  Horrible wasn't it and one I don't ever want to do again.

So back to the matter in hand.  As I said I've planned this post in advance and have resorted to taking photos in my dressing room again as the weather has either been wet or windy, or both.  We've had the odd day of sun albeit very chilly but I neglected to take advantage of it and when I did it was mid sun and not very flattering.

The week before I left for my little holiday I spent a fun afternoon taking some photos.  To be fair this outfit could have been shot outside as the Blakesleigh jacket* I'm sharing is waterproof, so perfect for wet and windy weather that we often encounter! 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Reviewing 3 Dresses from Matalan - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hi there.

How's it going?

I'm a tad excited as tomorrow I'm off the the French Alps for a weekend skiing.  I'm only going to be actually skiing on Saturday and Sunday and the other two days I'll be travelling.  It does seem a long way to go for only two days but if you know how much I LOVE to ski you'll know it'll be 100% worth it.

So with that being said, it's a short and sweet post today, I'm going to show you a trio of sweet dresses.  All from Matalan, and all suitable for special occasions you may have coming up.  I'm still on the hunt for a dress for the wedding I'm going to in June after sharing the two last week one being a non-starter and the other a possibility. These three are all fabulous, but not quite what I'm after for wedding guest!

March Review.

Morning everyone.

How are you?

April already, and I hope the old saying "April Showers" doesn't ring true, we've had so much rain already I want the sun now!  I've got some new skirts that I want to start wearing and I want to get out of my boots and into shoes too.

This week I've got to pack for my long weekend to Valmoral.  I know exactly what I'm taking so it won't be too much fuss - I just need to get into the loft to retrieve the ski gear I put away after the last trip, I didn't anticipate getting away again, so it's been a nice surprise. 

 

David and I like to take a packed lunch picnic with us for the drive down, so I'll be making rolls the night before and packing a few treats to enjoy on the drive.  I'm also going to take a flask of coffee to have on the Eurotunnel crossing, save getting something on the train, although we'll have rest stops as we go so will get fresh drinks and any snacks there.

It's the beginning of the month, so time to share my looks from last month with you.

Welcome to my March Review.

Talking of coffee, at the start of March I shared a new gilet with you and wore a latte inspired outfit to run some chores.  Do pop back for a quick read about my look - it's one I feel at home in and wear quite often. 

Rose Wrap Dress from Nasty Gal - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Good morning my friends.

Thanks for stopping by.

How's your week been?

Can't believe my next post will be in April, how can that have happened!

It's Easter in a few days and this year mine will be a little different.

You might have read earlier that I'm going skiing with David for a long weekend to Valmoral in The Alps.  We've been before a couple of years ago and enjoyed a cheeky break in the snow and enjoyed some quality time together.  I won't say we'll have a relaxing time as we drive down on the Friday, which will be about a 9 hour journey, ski on Saturday and Sunday and travel home again on the Monday, quite a flying visit - but well worth it ... so long as they have some snow ... lol!

I'll be packing light as I only need clothes for a couple of days, I'm going to travel down in my cream track suit, take a pair of jeans and my faux leather jeans, a couple of nice tops and a lounge suit.  The only other things will be my ski wear, thermals and socks.  The focus is on getting away - not what I'll look like!  (A pretty top can be very alluring and mask what's being worn below the waistline .. ermm basic jeans ... lol)

Something quite opposite from what I'll be wearing over Easter, today I'm sharing a dress that I bought with a June wedding in mind.  I spotted it on the Debenhams website when I was looking for an orange top to wear with my gifted orange beauties from Lotus Shoes. 

How do you like the wrap around dress in this Spring friendly shade of Rose pink?

My Style Not Age friends share ... Denim, but not Jeans!

Hi there,

How are you?

All good with Mummabstylish, how about you?

I've had a bit of a different weekend to normal, you see I've had four of the grand-kids staying with me since last Wednesday evening.  Their parents have been to Florence for a long weekend and it's actually the first time they've been away from all the children.  I bet the main topic of conversation was what the kids had been up to ... ha ha!

It's been an ... err .. interesting weekend with me realising I'm not at young as I thought I was!  But I didn't do a bad job ... with the help of my other kids it all worked out fine.  Both my daughter and SIL had an amazing time, as did me and my hubby, hard family work that was worth it. XX

As it's the last Monday of the month I'd like to welcome my four friends for the the Style not Age group who have tackled my challenge this month and set about styling ....

Denim, but not Jeans!

I admit I did have this style of skirt in the back of my mind when I set the task, although I'd not found one until until a couple of weeks ago.  I'd been hunting Vinted and Ebay every night and eventually found this one that was perfect - just what I'd been wanting - maxi, darker wash, my size and a good price.  It must have been just waiting for me! Lol.

Hot-ter Chocolate Suede Boots - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hi there.

How are you?

Bit of a different weekend for me, you see I'm looking after four of my grand-kids over the next few days whilst their mum and dad go off for a long weekend.  The children are all used to being with me, but not for this length of time, I'm sure they'll be alright, but bear with me if I'm not back in the room on Monday for the Style Not Age challenge! Lol!  My other children will be around to help and even though I've bought up five children, I'm years older now and I'm sure it won't be the same.  Do wish me luck my friends. X

A few weeks ago I was gifted a stunning pair of boots from Hotter Shoes* and have only just managed to wear and style them.  They're a soft and easy to wear suede boot that's a delicious shade of chocolate brown and feel a dream to wear.  Do stay tuned for a run down of these beauties. X

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

 

Spring Greens in Lotus Shoes.

Hi there,

How are you?

Hoping you've had a wonderful weekend and an inspiring week and I'd like to wish everyone a Happy Mother's Day for yesterday ( I know my friends in the US don't celebrate that until later in the year).  I've honestly been spoiled rotten by all the kids.  I went out for breakfast, had some stunning gifts, spent time with all the family and enjoyed a tasty and stunning tapas meal at my daughters.  I'm so lucky to have such wonderful children and was fortunate to have my mum with me too!  Did you do anything yesterday, I would love to hear what you did!

I'm shocked to find out I've missed my blog anniversary!  Not sure how that happened but on the 8th March Mummabstylish was 7 years old!  I had to check how many years I've been blogging and looked back on my first post!  Please don't look at it as I've come a long way since setting off on this blogging journey!

Not much to report over the past week, I've been to the gym and dance classes (let me know if you'd like to see my latest Tango) and everything seems to be running smoothly.  I have done a bit of shopping, well online shopping, and have received a couple of new skirts along with some gifted pieces I can't wait to style (two dresses that might be suitable for the one and only wedding I'm going to this year.)  The skirts are gorgeous with one from Vinted (remember I mentioned it last week when I shared faux leather) and the other is showcasing the 'on trend' denim skirt that I managed to track down on Ebay.  I've got that earmarked for the Style Not Age challenge next week!

Anyway back to today's post.  I recently shared some fancy shoes that were bright orange on the blog.  These were gifted from Lotus Shoes and I'm pleased to share another dazzling pair today.

Step forward you gorgeous green shoes with matching bag. 💚

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Alice & Olivia - Find your perfect fit!

Hello and welcome to Mummabstylish.

Hope your week is going well.

Are you a fan of faux leather?  I have always liked wearing this sleek and sturdy fabric and have now got a couple of new skirts along with a pair of jeans and culottes in my collection.  I have another fabulous skirt arriving soon as I bought one on Vinted the other day ... a cheeky little bargain for moi!

In case you're not familiar with Vinted they're an online website where you can buy and sell new or pre-loved garments at bargain prices.  I've bought quite a few bits from them in the past, but admit to only buying 'new with tag' items.  Selling is another avenue where you can literally get rid of anything you no longer want or need.  I went through my wardrobes recently and instead of donating to charity, which I usually do, I decided to sell on there.  It's surprising what people want to buy, even old garments that aren't 100% pristine sell, it just depends what you want for them.  Vinted is very easy to use, with everything on the App easy to follow.  When something is bought the item is paid for along with the postage, you receive an email with a postage label or QR code to stick on your parcel.  All that's left to do is drop off at the selected collection point, as soon as the item is received and has been checked the money (less postage) is transferred to your account, it's as simple as that. (If you'd like to know more, do drop me a message or email my friends).

So as soon as the new skirt arrives, you'll be the first to see it, I promise!

My OOTD is the jeans I mentioned above and this striking top I've received from Salamander Shirts.

I bought my trousers in the Tu Clothing section of my local supermarket and have worn them loads of times since finding them.  They are a perfect fit and look good with lots of tops and jumpers (that I haven't already sold on Vinted) lol!

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. This is also a sponsored post.

Citrus Accents with a Neutral Suit.

Hi there my friends.

Hope you've had a super weekend and dodged the bad weather.

It's been so changeable here with sleet and snow one minute and sunshine the next.  The temperatures improved yesterday and I even ventured out wearing slingbacks without any tights!  Let's hope the weather keeps getting better, but I fear the snow is set to return this week.  Fingers crossed it won't stay long!

Last week was my youngest grand-daughter's first birthday, I went to visit her and stayed for dinner followed by a big piece of cake, she's a bit too young to enjoy a party so it was just the family that went round but she was oblivious to most of it, she enjoyed the little wooden pram I picked though.  She had it filled with soft dolls and cuddly toys. 

On Friday it was the second birthday, in the run of many, for Mummab.  It was another grand-daughters 2nd birthday and I was lucky enough to go on a day trip to The Rare Breeds Center in Ashford.  It was simply wonderful and I'm definitely a girl who likes to be around animals.  I loved the children's barn area where I was able to stroke the animals and also get in the pens with them, my grand-kids certainly loved it too, especially in the pen where the little piglets were.  They nibbled at my grandsons welly toggles and loved being covered in the straw.  There was also a giant rabbit, goats, guinea pigs, a shire horse and huge bovine cow that was simply stunning. 

Another firm favourite for kids was the big soft play area, that even though there was a height restriction nanny just HAD to venture into .. lol!

Anyway back to my Outfit of the Day.  On a recent trip into town I spotted this gorgeous suit in H & M and once home and armed with an online discount voucher a friend gave me I bought the cream two piece and couldn't wait to style it.  I wanted to jazz it up so set about teaming it with bright orange.

With naff weather I've not worn it out yet so you're getting an insight as to how good it looks, do let me know what you think of my colourful creation.

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Hotter Suede Boots - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Morning my friends.

How's it going?

The spate of birthdays has arrived for Mummab!  There's two this month, then six next month followed by three in May, and that's only immediate family!  It's an expensive few months, with lots of fizz and party cake to get through ... I know I'll do anything for the cause!

I went to a couple of shops yesterday whilst birthday present shopping and one in particular wowed me with their offerings.  I abstained though and didn't buy anything ... err well I did buy a sports top as the few I have are a bit tight on me.  The one I found was in the Matalan sale and will work really well for my gym classes, and for only £4.50 I couldn't think of a reason not to!

We had a fun evening last night celebrating my youngest's (grand-daughters) birthday, she's now one and really is a little treasure.  She's been walking since she was 8 months so the little wooden pram I bought her was much appreciated.  She scooted around with a little soft doll and toy doggy on board, I felt that was a good gift for her.  He other grand-daughters birthday on Friday and I'm joining them on a visit to The Rare Breeds Centre which is just outside Ashford, but I'm praying the weather will be nice to us and not be cold or snowy.  Stay tuned for that one!

With warmth at the top of my list at the moment, these snuggly boots arrived at just the right time.  Do read on to find out all about these stylish little ankle boots from Hotter Shoes.

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

February Review.

Hello and welcome to the blog.

I'm thrilled you could make it today!

What have you been up to over the past week?  

It's been full steam ahead for my new build with floor joists being fitted at the weekend along with the steel beams.  It's really starting to take shape now, and the rooms downstairs are almost visible, with a bit of imagination and a lot of thought!  David has been working hard on this particular part of the build with the help of some of the family.  I've been trying to do my 'bit' by making drinks and sandwiches at every opportunity.

Sunday was as usual family day.  Some of the family came round for a pork roast.  Not something I'd usually pick, but I felt this might make a nice change and it certainly did.  I put some carrots, onions and apple underneath the joint and poured a good amount of cider into the roasting tin which worked a treat keeping the meat moist and the crackling crunchy and made excellent gravy.  

As it's the first Monday of the month I'm sharing what I blogged about last month for my ...

February Review.

At the start of the month I was showing off a very versatile shirt dress that's pattern is one of my favourites to wear, yes it's leopard print.

I found this beauty in the M & S sale for a bargain price of £18.  You can find out all about my purchase friendly purchase over here.

Latte Colours for my New Gilet - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hi there everyone.

Wow March, doesn't that mean Spring should arrive soon?

Life remains as hectic as ever for Mummabstylish.  Gym classes, dance classes, watching the grand-kids and general life leaves me with little time to get blogging and find out what you've all been doing.  I'd love you to share your life style on my link up below and look forward to seeing what you got up to over the past week too.

So I've still not managed to get into town to see the new styles, but I have purchased a couple of pieces online.  Two dresses and a pretty blouse have made an appearance in my wardrobe, but the jury is still out as to whether I keep them or not!  I've a wedding in June so one of them was a possibility, however it's a long sleeved maxi that has loads of fabric on a really wide skirt, it's also a heavy satin and so all things considered I fear it will be way too hot for me to wear.  I'm going to share it on the blog soon, so you can let me know your thoughts.

Let's get back to today's look, I've been wearing jeans mostly throughout the Winter, but with slightly better weather, although still cold, I donned this look earlier in the week for a trip into my local town to run a couple of errands.  The gilet is new and was kindly gifted to me from Tilletts Clothing as were the jeans with pearl embellishments on that I featured on the blog last week.

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Style Not Age have it Buttoned Up!

Morning my friends.

How are you?

Another weekend that flew by.  Out dancing on Friday night and we finished learning the Quickstep.  It was very fast too and I'm pleased I managed to get all the steps in the right order at the right time - phew!  I'm going to invest in some new dancing shoes in the next week or so, as the pair I've got were quite a cheap and aren't offering any kind of support around my foot, then I'm suffering with sore feet in the following days. 

Saturday evening I went out to a friends house.  David and I went for dinner with some other friends and it was good to catch up and chat over home cooked burgers and a few glasses of fizz.  I have to say Sunday was slow, even after a lay-in I felt quite jaded and welcomed the fact that I'd already finished the bulk of today's blog post.  

I hope you had a fun weekend and enjoyed some nice weather wherever you are in the world.  I've been thinking about spring styles and have a couple of new pieces to share with you soon. Sad to say I've not been in town so haven't seen any new styles 'up close and personal', but I'm planning on a trip soon and hope the stores will be bursting with new ideas, colours and fashions - have you bought anything new recently?

Today, being the last Monday of the month welcome's the Style Not Age collective.  In case you don't know what we're all about, me and four friends tackle a prompt set by one of us each month and produce unique looks promoting our own individual flair & style.

This month our instigator was Gail, she picked Buttoned Up & I have to admit it had me stumped!

I didn't get this one under my belt until late last week when I finally decided on these cotton trousers!

My New Jogger Set - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hello how are you?

Hope you're doing okay.

I'm a very happy Mummabstylish because my new build is underway and starting to look like a house.

The builders have gotten us to first floor level and the next step of steels and floor joists is in the lap of my hubby David.  He's a very talented man and can turn his hand to lots of things.  We've built our own house before and he's also helped build many homes under the help & guidance of a good friend. It's exciting for him to project build our own property and what he doesn't know he finds out and usually ends up doing it very well.  

If you'd like to see the progress so far do follow along on my other IG account purely for the new build in our garden.   I hope you'll agree my enthusiasm is founded!

I've hardly bought any new clothes recently, have you? I've been waiting for the Spring styles to arrive.  I'm excited to see what's going to be included and have yet to see what's creeping into the shops and haven't actually seen anything online either.  Do tell if you've got anything new yet! 

I have, however, bought myself a lovely trouser suit.  It's actually beige!  I know, I know I should be steering away from shades like this, as I don't want to become invisible.  I do have big plans for it though.  I fancy styling it with bright bold accessories like orange or green and have some stunning additions to style it with already.  Do watch out for this one, I'm sure it's going to be a winner.  Until I share it, do let me show off a wonderful jog suit I bought recently, it's from H & M as well!

Pearl Embellished Jeans with Pearl Patent Slingbacks.

Morning my friends.

How are doing?

Blimey, I'm shocked to find I'm typing on Sunday evening, do tell me where the time goes!  

I didn't have anything planned until I put these looks together last week and you may have seen one very similar on Instagram recently. 

It's all based around pearls.  I was recently offered to choose a couple of pieces from Tilletts Clothing.  They're an independent family owned business providing quality fashion pieces at affordable prices and I for one am very impressed with what they have on offer.  They focus on 'one size' garments designed for all ages.  I'm so pleased to be sharing these pearl embellished jeans with you today, do let me know what you think of this elegant pair. 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Ski Trip to Les Arcs - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hi there,

Thanks for joining me today and big apologies for no post on Monday.

I hold my hands up to just being lazy and not getting back into it after returning from skiing.

Skiing, as I imagined, came and went so quickly - I blinked and was back home again with all the washing to contend with.  That's the worst thing about going away isn't it, coming home to all the laundry!  Read on to find out all about my week in The Alps, it might even tempt you to go!

Silver lining to returning from my trip was the arrival of the brick layers who started on our new build.

For those of you who don't know, David and I bought the property we live in to knock it down and re build two new houses on the plot - it's huge and you might have often read about me moaning that there's so much grass to cut!  So the second house is started and you can see some piccys on my IG account Mummabbuilds.  Our new house will be started when this one is finished, but I don't know when that will be! Ha ha. 

Grey Trousers with a Bold Top- #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hello and welcome to Mummabstylish.

How's you week going?

I'm still on the slopes and I hope you might have seen what I've been up to on my IG account.

I'm planning a dedicated blog post all about my skiing adventure, so do watch out for it.  

Today I'm sharing an outfit shopped from my wardrobe, there's nothing new here, but I hope you like it.

It's based around this striking jumper the children bought one Christmas.  I think it's pairs very nicely with my grey trousers, what do you think?

January Review

Welcome everyone, it's lovely to have you here.

Is your month going to plan, what are you up to?

I'm in Les Arcs in the French Alps skiing at the moment, so I'm hoping this post actually publishes!

As it's the first Monday of the month It's time to share what I wore last month, so without any further ado let's get the ball rolling and start my January Review.

I started the month off with a super duper patterned dress that really filled me with happiness and thoughts of Spring.  This will be one to turn to quite often when the weather improves, it's just one of those dresses that ticks all my boxes.

Leopard Print Shirt Dress - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hi there,

Hope you're okay.

I'm getting very excited as I'm off skiing on Saturday!

Everything should be ready to go now, I generally only pack jeans with a few nice shirts or jumpers for the evening, so no worrying on the 'what to pack' front.  I have bought a new tracksuit from H & M though, I usually wear trackies in the morning down to breakfast and then sometimes I'll change into one before getting ready for dinner.  That is if I have the energy to change when I get in from a day's skiing ... lol!

I'm sharing this superb dress with you today although it won't be packed for my trip,  I think it's so nice I figured you'd like to see it too.  It's a leopard print shirt dress - both of these I can't resist and when I found it in the M & S sale early last month (it was reduced to £18) I knew it would be mine.

SNA Share January Blues.

Morning my friends.

Hope you've had a nice week and better weekend.

Don't the weeks just fly by now?

I'm on the run down for my holiday to The French Alps.  I'm off for a weeks skiing on Saturday, I'm going to Les Arcs and literally can't wait.  Let's hope my knees don't play me up.  I've been at the gym trying to strengthen them so I'm sure anything I've done will help.  I'm going to get everything sorted early this week so there's no rush on Friday, I don't need anything new as I've got plenty already.  I'll run my salopettes and jacket through the wash and add a sachet of protector into it, I don't want to get wet whilst I'm on the slopes!  Are you a fan of skiing?  I simply love going and am usually last in, I wonder if that will still be the same this year!

So today it's the last Monday of the month, and the first of the year which can only mean a new installment from the ladies from the Style Not Age collective.  If you've never heard of us before, myself and four friends come together and share our interpretation from a prompt set by one of us, this month Hilda - Over The Hilda set the task.  It's perfect for the new month, do let us know what you think of our looks based on our title ....

January Blues.

Salamander Shirt with Hotter Shoes - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Morning, good to have you here.

Sorry there wasn’t a post on Monday, various reasons and I didn’t want to beat myself up about it, you understand I’m sure. X

Hope you're going to join the #linkup below.

You've joined a very unhappy Mummab today.  You see I've managed to get photos taken yesterday, and stupidly deleted some of them as I was transferring them to my computer!!  I'm so annoyed with myself as I'm usually so careful.  My daughter has offered to take them again, but it's such a faff isn't it!

In future I'll be doubly careful with what I do so that it doesn't happen again!

I've had a normal week so far, gym has been good and although my I've been unable to get into my usual cycle class I went into body attack instead.  I was worried I wouldn't be able to keep up but was pleasantly surprised at how well I did, I've come away feel quite chilled with 'nicely' aching muscles, I'm sure I won't be able to walk in the morning, but that'll be tomorrow's worry ... lol!  That's the trouble with going to the gym in Jan and Feb, everyone is on a fitness spurt aren't they.  All the classes get booked up and the loyal gym go'ers can't get booked in, do you know I have to book a week and a day in advance to get into cycle classes, that means waking at 6.00 am on a Sunday and Tuesday to book for a Monday and Wednesday the following week!  If I'm late there's no chance of booking in!  I really need to look into going to another gym, but I like the instructor so I'm staying put for now, oh and just keep moaning about it!! ha ha!! 😝

So today I wanted to share two new items with you.  I've been a big fan of Salamander Shirts* for a while now and was delighted to receive a couple of new designs from them recently, so what do you think of this pretty floral shirt?  It's been teamed with my 'go to' trouser of the season ... my jeans.  However I wanted to give a bit of a Spring vibe so opted for these cute court shoes from Hotter* in the subtle nude shade.  

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Cross-Over Maxi from Jenerique - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Morning all.

What's been happening?

Been a normal week for me since going to London on Sunday to see Frozen.  I've been seeing the kids, going to gym classes and thinking about getting back into blogging and Instagraming like normal.

The gym classes have been going well and even though I'm exhausted when I've done them I feel 'good' too!  It's kind of a 'good' ache rather than just aching ... ha ha ha! How's your gym activites been? Are you a regular or just started on your fitness journey?  I hate not going to work-out classes and need to get fitter for my up and coming skiing holiday in February.

The weather has been cold here of late and it's been hard to get into the swing of things.  Photo taking has been non existent, so today's post has been a difficult one to sort out.  It's either raining, cloudy, too cold, windy or too dark.  Having to resort to old photos today, well not old they were taken before Christmas in my dressing room, let me know what you think of my stunning cross-over maxi dress.  

It's from a selection from Jenerique and you can see some other items I've styled from them here (this stunning jacquard blazer) and here (my stylish khaki coat).

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Frozen!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Don't worry, I'm not frozen, I've been to see Frozen.

I promised my grand-daughter that I'd take her to see the musical in London for her birthday and for various reasons yesterday was the first opportunity to go.

So along with her mum and two aunties we traveled to London to see the matinee show at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane London.

I had a busy morning to get ready to leave at 10.30.  I live about an hour from London, but allowing for traffic, parking and the tube ride I wanted to make sure we'd have plenty of time.  I'd decided to wear a dress with boots and took a chance on my faux leather jacket to be warm enough.  I just about managed to get away with it as once in town the weather wasn't too bad and I didn't have very far to walk.

I thought I'd share a few photos from my day so you can see what I wore and everything else I got up to. X 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Khaki Kool - #Chicandstylish #LINKUP

Hi there,

How are you all doing?

Another busy week so far with my gym classes back to normal, shopping in town and a meet-up with a friend for a catch up.  This, mixed in with seeing the grand-kids and the usual chores it's been full on!  Doesn't everything take so much longer now-a-days or is it just me?  My local bank has closed down so a trip into town with countless road works, traffic lights & endless traffic made everything hard work.

On the plus side, whilst in town getting a battery for my watch, I did a bit of shopping and came home with a new pair of jeans and a fancy pair of suit trousers - if they look okay I might invest in the jacket as I've ALWAYS loved a trousers suit.  You can see the only one I've ever had here back in 2019

Re-visiting that post I'm surprised at how long my hair was and noticed I was wearing these Vionic snakeskin shoes I'm sharing in today's post featuring my new khaki green coat.

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Fifty Eight - Dressing like I'm Twenty Eight!

Good morning my friends.

Hope you've had a super weekend.

Mine was super and went way too quickly.

I went back to ballroom dancing on Friday, it was the first session after a few weeks off over the festive period.  It was good fun and so nice to get back to enjoying dancing again.  We started the year off with a Foxtrot.  I have to say it all came back to me and I've even taken to using the top half of my body to bend and sway in the right direction - I'm going to need more practice for this, but will try looking at Youtube videos to gain more information.

Saturday was very quiet, I stayed in all day and didn't really do anything.  In the evening I went to have dinner at my eldest daughter's house.  It was fun to be around the children and as they only live down the road we could walk home (managed to dodge the rain fortunately).

Yesterday after a bit of a lay-in I shopped for dinner ingredients and came home to help prepare Beef Wellington with roast potatoes and some vegetables.  This sort of dinner makes a brilliant alternative to a traditional roast lamb, beef or chicken.  Much to the kids delight I did a chocolate fondu with marshmallows and fruit.  They love having this and always ask for it, but it's quite a messy affair with chocolate going everywhere!  It was loud and busy as usual but when they left I settled down to watch Ski Sunday and Country File ... I know how to rock don't I! 

Did I mention I've booked skiing?  We're visiting Les Arcs in the Alpes in a couple of weeks and I'm starting to get very excited ... hence watching Ski Sunday.  They've been talking about the lack of snow due to warm weather coming up from Africa.  Apparently things will change within the next week or so & I'm praying we'll have plenty of the white stuff come February. 🤞

Today I wanted to share an outfit that popped into my mind the other week whilst taking some other photos.

It's basically a look I would love to wear if i was younger, thinner and more confident!

It's a fun and sexy look and I thought I'd see what you thought about it.  Can a 58 year old wear an outfit a 28 might wear?  Do let me know in the comments below. X