December 6, 2025

Kindred Fashion

How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe with Co-ord Sets
08/25/2025 | Isobel Duff

How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe with Co-ord Sets

Are you tired of staring at your overstuffed wardrobe and feeling like you have nothing to wear? Well, fear not, because we’ve got the ultimate style solution for you: co-ord sets! Now, you might be wondering, what’s all the buzz about these sets? Well, let us spill the tea. Co-ord sets, short for coordinated sets, are matching pieces of clothing designed to be worn together.

Picture this: a chic crop top perfectly complementing a skirt or trousers in the same pattern or colour. It’s like a match made in fashion heaven! These sets come in various styles, from playful prints to sophisticated solids, ensuring there’s a co-ord set for every taste and occasion. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can create a fabulous capsule wardrobe using co-ord sets that will have you looking chic and put-together in no time. So, grab your favourite mini skirt co ord set and let’s dive in!

What’s the buzz about co-ord sets?

Co-ord sets, short for coordinated sets, are matching pieces of clothing designed to be worn together. They typically consist of a top and a bottom, such as a crop top and a skirt, or a blouse and trousers. The beauty of them lies in their versatility and ease of styling. By investing in a few well-curated sets, you can create numerous fashionable outfits without the headache of mix-and-match.

Building your capsule wardrobe

When it comes to building a capsule wardrobe with co-ord sets, it’s essential to choose versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down for various occasions. Start by selecting sets in classic colours like black, white, or neutral tones, as they provide a solid foundation for endless outfit possibilities.

Mixing and matching

The magic of co-ord sets lies in their ability to mix and match effortlessly. You can pair the crop top from one set with the skirt from another to create a whole new look. This way, you maximize the number of outfits you can create with just a few co-ord sets. Feel free to experiment with different combinations and unleash your inner fashionista!

Accessorize and elevate

Accessories are the key to transforming your co-ord sets into unique ensembles. Layer on a statement necklace, stack some trendy bracelets or add a wide-brimmed hat to elevate your look. Don’t be afraid to mix metals, textures, and prints to add personality to your outfits. Remember, fashion is all about expressing yourself!

Day to night transitions

One of the fantastic things about co-ord sets is their versatility. With a simple change of accessories and footwear, you can effortlessly transition from day to night. Swap your flats for heels, throw on a blazer or leather jacket, and you’re ready for a night out on the town! The mini skirt co-ord set you love during the day can easily be transformed into a chic evening ensemble.

Capsule wardrobe on the go

If you’re a frequent traveller or always on the go, co-ord sets are a game-changer. Packing becomes a breeze as you can mix and match your sets to create a variety of outfits without taking up much space in your suitcase. Say goodbye to overpacking and hello to stress-free styling!

Sustainable style

Building a capsule wardrobe with co-ord sets also aligns with the growing trend of sustainable fashion. By investing in high-quality co-ord sets, you reduce the need for excessive shopping and fast fashion consumption. Co-ord sets can be worn repeatedly, making them a sustainable choice that doesn’t compromise on style.

Conclusion

In conclusion, co-ord sets are a fabulous way to build a capsule wardrobe that offers endless outfit possibilities. From casual day looks to sophisticated evening ensembles, co-ord sets provide versatility and style in one fell swoop. So, why not embrace this fashion trend and start curating your own collection? Remember, fashion is about having fun, expressing yourself, and feeling confident in what you wear. Happy co-ordinating, fashionistas!

Share: Facebook Twitter Linkedin
How to elevate your outfits this summer
08/21/2025 | Isobel Duff

How to elevate your outfits this summer

With a heat wave currently sweeping across the UK, chances are you have dug out your summer clothes from storage. While it might seem easier to dress for warmer weather in theory, with fewer pieces required, this is not always the case.

During colder months, layering can be used to help create outfits that suit your personal style. However, with temperatures reaching almost 30 degrees this week, layering is off the cards for most of us.

Whether you are attending a summer wedding, a work social, or you simply want to look your best at this weekend’s BBQ, the following tips will help you to elevate your looks without overheating.

Tailoring

Nothing ruins a perfectly good outfit more than if it does not fit quite right. Whether it is too big and you are having to constantly pull it up, or it just does not sit right and requires regular readjustment, this impacts the overall look.

While tailoring may sound like a dramatic approach to take, especially when considering clothing bought on the high street, it can drastically improve the appearance of clothing and mean that you find yourself reaching for certain items from your wardrobe far more often.

If you have clothing you love that does not fit exactly how it should, consider investing in getting them tailored. This will allow the pieces to look far better on your exact body shape and improve your overall look.

Tailoring is not as expensive as you may first think, however, it is always wise to start with your most versatile pieces, allowing you to get the most for your money. For example, a neutral linen shirt or shorts that can be worn for a range of occasions.

Accessorising

Any outfit, no matter how casual, can always be elevated with the right accessories.

When shopping for accessories, it is easy to become tempted by statement pieces, whether that be a signature bangle or a statement handbag. While these pieces can work well for injecting colour and personality into your looks, it is better to first focus on building up a more versatile collection, a capsule wardrobe of accessories.

This should consist of items that will complement a variety of outfits and work for a number of occasions. Including, but not limited to, a neutral cross-body bag, big enough for BBQs and picnics, but small enough for weddings and parties, a simple yet elegant pair of diamond earrings, and a comfortable but complementary pair of heels or dressy sandals.

Once you have built up an adaptable collection of accessories, these can be mixed and matched depending on the purpose of the outfit.

Colour theory

Recently picking up a lot of interest on Tik Tok, colour theory is something well worth researching if you want to elevate your looks this summer. This works by determining which colours best complement your skin tone, as well as each other, in order to help compile outfits that are going to be the most flattering.

You can either do this yourself or enlist the help of a professional to advise you on which colours you should consider building your wardrobe around.

Share: Facebook Twitter Linkedin
How the star signs might affect your proposal
08/14/2025 | Isobel Duff

How the star signs might affect your proposal

For many people ruled by their star signs, big milestone moments such as marriage proposals can be just as affected by the stars. In fact, the star signs of you and your partner might impact the choices you make when it comes to proposing to them.

Research from engagement ring specialist F.Hinds suggests that over a fifth of Brits search for specific star signs in potential partners, as they believe this will make their pairing more compatible. Millennials were found to be the most likely to choose their partner based on the stars, with 59% of them believing it truly has an effect on their romance.

Following this staggering statistic, we’ve delved deeper into how the stars might affect your marriage proposal too.  

The ring

One of the most important parts of your proposal, choosing the perfect engagement ring can be difficult – but bringing star signs into it might actually make it easier. F. Hinds research found that Cancer, Taurus, Virgos and Capricorns would prefer a traditional style engagement ring, whereas the other horoscopes would more lean towards a “statement piece.” Geminis are linked to communication, so you might consider adding an engraving to your partner’s ring as an extra personalised touch.

As well as considering how your star sign might affect the style of the ring, it’s also important to remember the 5 C’s – especially when choosing the perfect piece of diamond engagement jewellery.

Cut

The cut is the only part of creating a diamond that’s done by the human hand, and the process of cutting is key in producing the perfect diamond engagement ring your fiancé-to-be will treasure forever.

Colour

Did you know that diamonds have their own alphabet? Starting from ‘D’ and running all the way through to ‘Z’, the diamond colour alphabet runs from completely colourless to diamonds with a warm yellow tone. 

Clarity

It’s natural for diamonds to have tiny little marks or ‘flaws’ – think of them as nature’s birthmarks. These marks are also known as clarity characteristics and are completely natural when diamonds are formed. As such, clarity refers to the number, location, size and type of ‘inclusions’ within a diamond. 

Carat

You might have heard of this C – it’s probably the most talked about aspect of a diamond! Carat refers to a diamond’s weight and in turn, its overall size. 

Certification 

When buying a diamond engagement ring, look for diamonds that come with a Diamond Certificate from an independent laboratory. These documents showcase the characteristics of the diamond such as its Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat weight – just to give you extra piece of mind when taking home the jewellery.

When to pop the question…

Now you’ve chosen the ring, the next step is deciding when to pop the question. Again, horoscopes can be great for calculating just the right moment to get down on one knee. You could find out more when it comes to horoscopes on Astrologify.com but If your partner is an Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Virgo, Libra, or a Capricorn they’ll likely be willing to be bold and drop hints when in a long-term relationship meaning you can often feel more comfortable popping the question.

On the other hand, the Sagittarius, Cancer, Leo, Aquarius, and Pisces signs are more subtle, and less likely to let you cotton on if they’re thinking of taking the next step in the relationship so it’s important to keep an eye out on any small details that can help you make your decision.

For star-crossed lovers or those who think their love was written in the stars, horoscopes are a great way to plan a proposal and a marriage that lasts through every lunar cycle.

Share: Facebook Twitter Linkedin
Choosing the ultimate wedding ring for him and her
08/08/2025 | Isobel Duff

Choosing the ultimate wedding ring for him and her

For those who decide to say, ‘I do’, the wedding day is one of the most special events of your life. The act of joining yourself to another person is a remarkable moment, and there is the added joy of celebrating your marriage with all of your friends and family around you. However, after months or even years of planning, the occasion will be over in a flash.

In addition to the photographs and the memories that will last a lifetime, it is your wedding rings that provide a daily reminder of your union. Used for centuries as a symbol of everlasting love, these bands act as an important tangible symbol of commitment between you and your other half.

Given their significance and the fact that they need to go the distance, your wedding rings need to be exactly tailored to you and your partner. This guide to choosing the ultimate wedding ring for him and her will help you find the perfect bands to journey with you through your marriage.

To match or not to match?

Traditionally wedding rings were matched to one another to reflect how marriage unites a couple forever. However, increasingly there has been a move towards individual designs for wedding rings. These unique pieces are sometimes linked by a central theme but also can be starkly different. If you and your partner have different tastes in jewellery, do not be afraid to investigate unique ring styles.

Finding the right shape

While you can choose any kind of ring you like, that doesn’t mean that there are no considerations. Of particular importance is finding the right shape. This does not just mean getting the right fit on your finger: those with an engagement ring will need to consider how the wedding band sits alongside the ring.

For engagement rings with high settings, classic court-shaped wedding bands should slot in nicely. Those with a cluster or halo engagement ring may need to look into specially shaped wedding rings to ensure that the two pieces sit flush together.

Consider your lifestyle

You may not wish to wear your wedding ring all the time, especially in situations where damage might be caused. However, a wedding band will be on your finger for much of your life. Considering your lifestyle is therefore exceptionally important when you are choosing your wedding ring.

Hard-wearing metals such as scratch-resistant zirconium are an ideal option for those who use their hands a lot in day-to-day activities. You may also need to consider hypoallergenic metals such as titanium. Platinum is a popular option as its natural bright white colour does not tarnish or fade.

Align with your style

Given that the wedding ring will be the most treasured part of your wardrobe, it is essential that it aligns with your style and is a design that you can be confident you’ll love forever.

For example, if you wear a lot of gold jewellery, it might be sensible to choose a gold wedding band. Weddings rings set with diamonds are visually spectacular and ideal if you like to make a statement – although it is worth remembering that these will need cleaning more often than plain metal bands.

Share: Facebook Twitter Linkedin
How To Boost The Value Of Your Optical Practice In 4 Easy Steps
08/02/2025 | Isobel Duff

How To Boost The Value Of Your Optical Practice In 4 Easy Steps

If you are running an optical practice, you are likely always looking for ways to add value to your products and services. There are many ways to expand your client base and they are often not as complicated as you might think. An optical practice can be an exciting business and your turnover will depend on the number of customers you see, as well as your frame choice. Within this article, you will find four practical solutions to boost the value of your business. They will help you cement your practice in the heart of the local community and increase your profits.

Improve Curb Appeal

One of the best ways to attract more customers to your store is to increase curb appeal. First impressions matter, so it is crucial to make your practice appealing from the outside. If your store looks messy and cramped, customers are unlikely to trust you to take care of their eyes. People want to know that you have the necessary expertise and the latest equipment to meet their needs and deliver a quality service. Therefore, it may be worth refurbishing your client-facing areas, rearranging window displays, renovating your storefront, and even extending your facilities. This way, passers-by will feel encouraged to walk in and make an appointment.

Diversify Your Frame Inventory

Diversifying your portfolio is a great strategy to increase optical sales and grow your practice. For example, you may want to explore different products, such as wholesale sunglasses. International Eyewear is a leading eyewear supplier, which makes purchasing wholesale sunglasses easy and simple. Thanks to their advanced technology and expertise in eyewear design, you can provide exceptional eyewear service. Their focus on quality design and fair pricing will provide you with access to a range of eyewear brands and products to suit all tastes and budgets. Should you need any help or support, you can always speak to their team of experts.

Monitor Profit Margins

To ensure that your optical practice remains sustainable, you will need to closely monitor your profit margins. Every day you incur a number of operating costs, which need to be supported by your monthly revenue. Consequently, if you are looking to increase your profits, it is important to focus on bringing in more customers and offering access to a wide range of services. As a result, you will increase your monthly revenue and you can give your practice additional breathing space. Also, it is key to control your expenses and ensure you are not spending more than you can afford on practice supplies and equipment.

Exhibit Good Leadership

Lastly, you will need to take a look at how your practice is being run on a daily basis. For example, it may be necessary to make changes to your leadership style. Also, you will need to ensure that your employees stay motivated by showing appreciation for their hard work. Keep track of day-to-day operations and check that key responsibilities are fulfilled on time. Additionally, it is crucial to keep your accounts up-to-date, as this will allow you to monitor your cash flow forecasts. As such, demonstrating good leadership will benefit your whole business, as you can monitor how well your practice is doing.

Share: Facebook Twitter Linkedin
Fashion: Summer Lingerie Essentials with Marks & Spencer
08/01/2025 | Isobel Duff

Fashion: Summer Lingerie Essentials with Marks & Spencer

When it comes to Lingerie, Mark and Spencer is my go-to place. Marks and Spencer have compiled a guide here of summer lingerie essentials highlighting lighter fabrics with cute floral prints.

I was kindly sent some pieces from the Rosie for Autograph by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Summer collection. The Rosie for Autograph collection has some gorgeous silk and lace sets which are brilliant for summer. I chose a lovely floral set which I thought was so pretty and I also got a matching cami and shorts set which I took to Spain last week. The loose fit silk fabric was brilliant for the hot nights in Spain and as they were silk, they felt amazing against my sunburn.

Rosie for Autograph Silk Print French Knickers*

There’s also a sale on at Marks and Spencer’s at the moment so you can get some super bargains, this double pack was only £10.50 and the design is really pretty! The quality of these are really great and I can tell they will last a long time.
Have you ever bought underwear from Marks and Spencer? or the Rosie for Autograph line?

Share: Facebook Twitter Linkedin