Kindred Fashion

Regardless of your level of expertise, makeup application is an art that can be improved over time. Unlike the well-known painting-by-numbers scheme, there is no fixed formula for this art form; it depends upon individuality and style. We will provide you with some simple tweaks to your daily beauty regime that will instantly elevate your makeup game. These adjustments are geared towards helping you accentuate your natural features through contours, colours and highlights.

Perfecting Your Eyebrows: The Power of the Eyebrow Pencil

Our eyebrows set the symmetrical framework for our face. Thus, paying good attention to them can bring a huge difference in your overall appearance. Amongst the myriad of eyebrow products, an eyebrow pencil can be a game changer when used effectively. For a naturalesque look, always opt for a shade lighter than your hair colour. Fill in the sparse areas using feathered strokes, remembering that less is more. For beginners, consider using a stencil or a guide until you get the hang of your preferred eyebrow shape and arch.

A New View on Eyeshadow: Blend, Blend and Blend Some More

Applying eyeshadow can be a bit tricky, especially when working with multiple pigments. The cardinal rule here is to blend until you can’t distinguish where one colour ends and another begins. For a seamless gradient, start with a light base colour that is close to your skin tone. Building up layers of gradually darker hues should give your eyes that smoky, sultry look.

Lipstick Can Double as Blush: Maximise Your Makeup Essentials

The beauty of the makeup world is its potential for multi-use. A great example of this is using lipstick as a blush. Start dabbing a small amount of your favourite lipstick onto the apple of your cheeks and blend using a beauty blender or your fingers. This provides a natural flushed effect, ensuring your blush matches your lip colour.

Foundation Application: The Magic of Beauty Sponges

No discussion about makeup would be complete without mentioning the wonders a beauty sponge can do. Instead of applying foundation with your fingers, a beauty sponge allows for an even and full coverage. Dampen your sponge, dip it lightly into your foundation, and apply to your face using a bouncing motion. This technique also ensures that your foundation meshes well with your skin, avoiding that unwanted cakey appearance.

Setting Your Makeup: The Benefit of Spray

After all the hard work of application, you want your makeup to last. Setting sprays ensure your look stays flawless throughout the day. Aim the spray nozzle at least six inches away from your face and mist evenly. This simple step not only helps maintain your makeup’s vibrancy but also gives your skin that dewy, radiant finish.

Tweaks to Transform Your Look

Mastering the art of makeup application is a continuing journey. Over time, every artist finds their preferred techniques and tools, but the exploration of new methods and products should always be encouraged. It’s all about enhancing what you naturally have, so don’t be afraid to try these simple tweaks. Whether it’s the power of an eyebrow pencil or the multiple uses of your favourite lipstick, these little adjustments could surprisingly elevate your makeup game.

I’ve always been quite a simple person when it comes to wearing jewellery. To be honest, I actually only ever worn simple silver pieces but in the last couple of months I’ve branched out. I was recently introduced to a brand called Ottoman Hands which is an online handmade jewellery company based in the UK and inspired by the traditions of the Ottoman Empire. Ottoman Hands is primarily gold plated jewellery and I was lucky to be gifted a few items. There are so many gorgeous collections including zodiac and alphabet ones which would make a great gift for someone.

I thought I would share the three items that I have been obsessed with. I picked up the Batya Eye Necklace and Earrings Set from the Evil Eye collection. I know there are different superstitions behind the symbol but personally I believe that it deflects bad energy and keep evil away. Both the necklace and earrings are 21ct gold plated on recycled brass and I chose the blue cubic zirconia gemstone. There are also clear and green stones available too. The necklace can be adjusted to several different lengths which I really like and I’ve been wearing it on the shortest level.

My late Grandma always wore similar pieces as she was into ancient Egyptian history and I always was fascinated with all the different symbols and turquoise gems. I also loved that Ottoman Hands actually had a few necklaces that were of the hieroglyphic letters and also the Eye of Horus symbol.

The other item which I picked up from Ottoman Hands is a gorgeous little ring. The Polymnia Blue Topaz Square Stacking Ring comes in three sizes. I went for the largest size but I do have to say it’s still quite tight and won’t fit on my middle finger. The large size equates to a size N/P so it’s worth measuring up before purchasing. However, the ring is utterly gorgeous, I’m obsessed with the gemstone. The ring is 18ct gold plated recycled Sterling Silver and to be honest, it’s not left my finger since it arrived.

It’s also worth mentioning that all three items came in a little recyclable pouch and all the packaging is sustainable. I’m sure you’ll be seeing these items a lot on my Instagram. I’m really happy with the quality and think that these will be staples in my jewellery collection!

Many people associate maxi dresses with casual summer outfits, but they can actually be so much more versatile than this. Maxi dresses can be worn across different seasons and also for a variety of occasions, both formal and informal. Simply styling your dress differently and pairing it with certain shoes and accessories can transform your look. If you’d like some tips on how to style your maxi dresses for different seasons and events, then keep on reading.

Summer:

Maxi dresses are perhaps most commonly worn during the daytime in summer. Due to their thin, breezy fabric and long skirts, maxi dresses are great for keeping you cool on hot days. You can also find so many stylish maxi dresses with bright colours and floral prints, and these are perfect for this season.

To style your maxi dresses for summer days by the beach, it’s important to keep things simple and casual. Pairing these dresses with sandals or flip flops is a great idea for the summer, and to avoid the glare of the sun, you could opt for a big sun hat and some stylish sunglasses. For the dress itself, halterneck or strapless maxi dresses are a great option.

Formal events:

Although maxi dresses are often seen as informal, they can also be styled for the evening or more formal occasions. A dress in an elegant fabric like satin is a good choice, and pairing this with some high heels is perfect for a formal event. If your dress is a bit loose and shapeless, then wearing a belt around your waist will add structure to the look. Finally, to complete the outfit, you can layer a blazer or shrug on top of your maxi dress.

Winter:

Maxi dresses are often seen as a summer outfit, but they can also be worn in winter with just a few adjustments. Just like for formal events, a blazer or jacket is great to wear with your maxi dress. A leather jacket is a classic choice, or you may prefer to go for a thicker coat if you need more warmth.

However, since maxi dresses have long, breezy skirts, you may find your legs getting cold when wearing these dresses in the winter. To combat this, you can wear high boots to cover your calves and add some extra style, or you can even wear tights or leggings underneath your dress. Since a the dress’s skirt is so long, no one will notice that you’re wearing leggings. Finally, if you just need one more layer, a jumper can be worn under or over your dress to make you as cosy as possible.

If you love maxi dresses, then you’ll be happy to learn that they can be worn around the year and for almost any occasion you can think of. By selecting the right shoes, jacket and accessories, you can create casual summer looks, elegant formal outfits, and a cosy winter wardrobe all with this incredibly versatile piece of clothing. Try out some of the ideas listed above to see what suits you!

I’ve finally joined the Dr. Martens club! The lovely team over at Dr. Martens recently sent over a pair of their Clarissa II Quad Leather Platform Sandals. I thought I would share some of the outfits I’ve been wearing my new sandals with and how I’ve been getting on. This week we visited the Lake District for a short staycation, there will be plenty more posts coming about our trip. However, it was the perfect time to take my new Dr. Marten sandals out for a spin.

It’s no secret that Dr. Martens generally take a while to break in but that’s because they are so well made with genuine leather and also some styles come in vegan leather. The Clarissa II Quad Sandals are platforms so they give you a little height. With that they are quite weighty but you soon get used to it! I’ve been wearing them around the house to break them in and sometimes with thick bed socks. Personally, I’ve not really found them to be too problematic but it’s always good to have some spare plasters in your bag. The Clarissa ll Quad Sandals are such a versatile pair of sandals, there are so many outfits to wear with them. You can see that I’ve been dressing them both up and down.

CASUAL cycling shorts combo

cropped tee & culottes

gingham daisies & leather jacket

polka dot dress

leopard print midi

These are just a few of the outfits that I wore during my holiday to the Lakes. As you can see my new Dr. Martens sandals went absolutely perfect with every outfit. Whether it was dressing up for a meal in the evening or dressing down for a wander around the lakeside, they are such a versatile piece. I can’t wait to wear them throughout Summer and I can already tell they will be a staple item within my wardrobe. I feel so cool and edgy now that I’ve got a pair of Docs!

Every girl loves to accessorize with a bit of sparkle. Although I do tend to stick to the same couple of pieces, I do love wearing Jewellery. I have more recently become interested in investing in more expensive and interesting pieces which is why I’ve also been looking at antique jewellery. My Grandma was always the queen of beautiful jewellery. Her collection was incredible and included some amazing pieces which have got me searching online to see what is available. Carus Jewellery is an online website specialising in Antique Jewellery with worldwide delivery and a huge range of pieces.

I thought I would share some of my favourite items on the Carus Jewellery website and also talk a little bit about why I want to invest in more antique pieces. You can find some really stunning pieces from a range of different time periods. There are also so many different designs and stones for every price range. One of the key things with investing in antique jewellery is that most likely the quality is unreal and you’re also getting a piece with so much history. No to mention, by purchasing a second-hand piece of jewellery you are been sustainable which is always a good thing.

So Carus Jewellery has some incredible pieces on their website. I could spend hours trawling through the website and lusting after lots of pretty diamonds. I’m always drawn to the rings as they are just beautiful. One of my favourites is this 9ct gold five stone Amethyst Ring. I just think the colour, cut and style is just gorgeous. The ring is actually hallmarked from 1977 so this is actually classed as pretty modern in the world of Antique jewels. This is definitely something my Grandma would’ve worn so there is no denying that her taste has been passed onto me.

Although I don’t really have a particular stone which I would consider a favourite, I do love the Amethyst above and Aquamarine is also another stunning stone which I’m fond out. However, I’ve always loved a gorgeous set of pearls. It’s a timeless piece which never goes out of style and looks unbelievably classy. I’m pretty sure my obsession with pearls stemmed from that incredible piece at Audrey Hepburn wore in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Although this piece is not as show-stopping, I love how dainty and just so pretty this Edwardian pearl necklace is. Dating back to more than 100 years, it’s such a beautiful necklace and would look so stunning with an LBD. Just like Audrey Hepburn!

There are actually a few pearl items on Carus Jewellery which have caught my eye. You can get some simple pearl stud earrings or go all out with a stunning show-stopping pendant. A lot of the pearl items do date back to the Edwardian period and I’m sure to carry so much history with them. I’d love to hear down below in the comments if you would invest in antique jewellery or do you already own some vintage items?

When it comes to jewellery, I like to keep things simple. Classic timeless designs which you can wear every day. I very much stick to the few pieces that I like and roll with those on a daily basis. A new addition to my collection is a piece from the Estée Lalande collection at Daisy London. This is actually my second item from the collection as I love the simplicity of the Daisy London necklaces. I’ve always watched Estee on YouTube so it’s lovely to see her have this collection with such stunning designs.

I was actually kindly gifted this necklace but since it’s arrival a couple of weeks ago, it’s not left my neck. The piece I chose was the Sunburst Chain Necklace in silver as I love how simple it was and because it had a slightly shorter chain than what I usually would wear. I thought the shorter chain would be ideal for layering necklaces which it really is.The little sunbursts on the chain make it so unique but I love the whole vibe of the collection which features medallions and sun & luna charms. Each piece in the collection actually has a deeper meaning whilst channelling seventies and bohemian vibes.

As I’ve said, I pretty much wear this daily as it really goes with everything and is not too invasive which is something I go for with when choosing jewellery. I’m pretty much a silver girl when it comes to jewellery but I love that you can get a lot of the items in the Estée Lalonde collection in both silver and gold. My other piece from the collection is the Unity Ring Necklace which is also in Silver. This necklace is on a much longer chain so they actually go pretty well together when layering. You’ll be seeing these making more of an appearance on my blog as I’m trying to upload a few more outfit photos. For now, I’ve been taking a few selfies – The last one featuring the Sunburst Necklace!

Fall city breaks are pure magic. The leaves are turning, the crowds are thinning, and there’s something utterly romantic about wandering cobblestone streets wrapped in your favourite knit. But let’s be honest – packing for a European city break can feel like solving a particularly tricky puzzle. How do you fit everything you need for sightseeing, dinners, potential sunbathing (yes, even in Fall!), and those inevitable Instagram moments into one suitcase?

After countless trips and a few packing disasters, I’ve cracked the code on Fall city break dressing. Whether you’re planning a long weekend in Paris or a week exploring Rome, here’s everything you need to know about looking effortlessly chic while staying comfortable.

Airport Outfit: Comfort Meets Style

Your journey starts at the airport, and honestly, this is where comfort should be your number one priority. Think elevated loungewear rather than full pyjamas – you want to feel cosy but not look like you’ve just rolled out of bed.

My go-to airport formula is simple: soft wide-leg trousers (they’re forgiving after aeroplane snacks), a fitted long-sleeve top, and a cardigan you can easily remove for security. Slip-on trainers are essential – nobody has time for laces when you’re rushing to your gate. A crossbody bag keeps your hands free for dragging luggage and grabbing your passport every five minutes.

The key is choosing pieces that work double-duty. That cardigan becomes your aeroplane blanket, and those wide-leg trousers transition beautifully for a casual dinner on your first night.

Day Trip Essentials: Comfort for Hours of Walking

European cities are made for walking, and Fall weather can be wonderfully unpredictable. Layering is your best friend here – start with a good base and build up.

Co-ord sets are absolute lifesavers for city sightseeing. They look put-together in photos, are incredibly comfortable, and solve the “what goes with what” dilemma when you’re getting dressed in a tiny hotel room. Choose knit co-ords in neutral tones that hide coffee spills and travel wrinkles.

Comfortable trainers are non-negotiable. Save the cute boots for shorter walking days – your feet will thank you after exploring Prague’s Old Town for eight hours straight. A lightweight scarf adds warmth and instantly elevates any outfit, plus it’s perfect for covering shoulders when visiting churches.

Unexpected Sunshine: Fall Sun Ready

Just because it’s Fall doesn’t mean you won’t encounter glorious sunshine – especially in southern European cities. Pack at least one sundress that works with tights and boots for cooler moments.

A denim jacket is perfect for these in-between days. It works over dresses, with jeans, and even over swimwear if you’re lucky enough to find yourself by the Mediterranean in October. Choose a classic cut in a wash that goes with everything in your capsule wardrobe.

Don’t forget sunglasses – Fall sun can be surprisingly strong, and they add instant polish to any outfit.

Evening Elegance: From Dinner to Dancing

Fall evenings call for something special, whether you’re enjoying tapas in Barcelona or wine in a Tuscan hill town. The key is choosing pieces that work for both nice dinners and spontaneous nights out.

A midi dress in a rich Fall colour – think burgundy, forest green, or warm rust – works beautifully with both flat ankle boots for dinner and heels for dancing. Add a leather jacket for edge or a blazer for sophistication.

This is where your gold heels earn their packing space. They elevate any outfit instantly and work with almost every colour. Choose a comfortable heel height – European streets aren’t always heel-friendly, but the confidence boost is worth it.

Smart Packing Hacks for City Breaks

Packing smart can make or break your city break wardrobe. Here are my tried-and-tested tricks:

The Shoe Strategy: Limit yourself to three pairs maximum – comfortable walking shoes, versatile ankle boots, and one pair of heels. Wear your heaviest pair on the plane to save suitcase space.

The Versatility Test: Every item should work with at least three other pieces in your suitcase. That burgundy jumper needs to work with jeans, a skirt, or over a dress.

Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling clothes saves space and prevents wrinkles. Stuff underwear and socks into shoes to maximise every inch.

The Scarf Solution: Scarves take up virtually no space but completely transform outfits. Pack two – one lightweight for warmth, one patterned for style.

Your City Break Wardrobe Essentials

Keep your packing list focused on these key pieces: comfortable jeans, one midi dress, a knit co-ord set, a warm cardigan, ankle boots, comfortable trainers, and those all-important gold heels. Add a denim or leather jacket, two scarves, and a crossbody bag, and you’re set.

Remember, the best-dressed travellers aren’t those with the most clothes – they’re the ones who feel confident and comfortable in everything they pack. Choose pieces you love, that fit well, and that make you feel like the best version of yourself.

Your Fall city break awaits – and now your wardrobe is ready for whatever European adventure comes your way.

When it comes to party season, sparkle is a given. Sequins make their annual comeback, velvet takes centre stage in winter wardrobes, and both fabrics are synonymous with glamour. But what happens when you put the two together? Sequins and velvet are a textural dream team — combining shimmer with richness, statement with sophistication. This season, it’s all about pairing the unexpected for a look that feels both modern and timeless.

Here’s why sequins and velvet are the duo to try right now, and how to style them for maximum impact.

Why sequins and velvet work so well together

Sequins are playful, bold, and instantly eye-catching, while velvet is luxurious, deep, and soft to the touch. Put them side by side, and you create balance. Sequins bring the drama, velvet grounds it with texture. It’s a styling trick that not only looks glamorous but also feels fresh, especially if you want to elevate your partywear beyond the usual one-fabric statement.

Outfit idea: a velvet blazer over a sequin dress

If you’re heading somewhere chic, layering a velvet blazer over a mini sequin dress is a foolproof way to nail that “effortlessly cool” vibe. The sequins sparkle underneath, while the blazer tones it down and adds structure. It’s a look that works for cocktails, dinners, and New Year’s Eve parties alike.

The key here is colour contrast. Try a black velvet blazer with a gold or silver sequin dress, or go bold with jewel tones like emerald and sapphire. Either way, the combination screams modern glamour.

Outfit idea: sequin top + velvet trousers

Sometimes, dresses aren’t the answer — and separates can feel just as party-ready. Pair a glittering sequin top with high-waisted velvet trousers for an outfit that’s comfortable but still makes a statement. It’s a perfect choice if you’re moving from dinner to dancing, offering both style and ease.

The silhouette is what makes this work: slim trousers and a fitted top keep it sleek, while flared velvet trousers can give you a retro edge. Add strappy heels and minimal jewellery to let the textures speak for themselves.

Outfit idea: velvet dress with sequin accessories

If a full sequin look feels intimidating, you can flip the formula by starting with a velvet dress and introducing sequins through accessories. A sequinned clutch or a cropped sequin jacket instantly elevates a velvet mini or midi dress, proving you don’t have to go head-to-toe sparkle to make an impact.

Playing with colour and tone

One of the easiest ways to make sequins and velvet work together is through colour pairing. Black velvet with silver sequins feels sleek and classic, while jewel tones — think ruby red velvet with gold sequins — bring warmth and richness. Monochrome looks are also striking; all-black or all-navy outfits feel sophisticated yet dramatic.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. The whole point of mixing textures is creating unexpected combinations that stand out.

Finding your perfect party look

The beauty of sequins and velvet is how versatile they can be together. Go bold with a statement dress layered with sequins, keep it chic with separates, or ease into the trend with accessories. Whatever your style, the pairing works because it balances contrast — soft against sparkly, matte against reflective.

Your moment to shine

This season, step outside the usual “safe” partywear and embrace the magic of mixing textures. Sequins bring the sparkle, velvet brings the depth, and together they create outfits that feel impactful without trying too hard. Whether you’re dressing for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or simply a night out that deserves something special, the sequins-and-velvet duo guarantees you’ll make an entrance.

So go on — layer them, mix them, and make the look your own. After all, party season is the best excuse to let your outfit shine as brightly as you do.

Nothing lifts your mood like dressing in bright colours and bold prints. It’s not all about looking good, but it’s about feeling good and I’ve been embracing Dopamine Dressing to bring more joy into my wardrobe!

I picked out an outfit which I thought would be mood lifting. I actually wore this outfit whilst in London a couple of weeks ago. The weather was absolutely atrocious and it was pouring down with rain. I’ve got to say wearing this bright and colourful outfit DID make me feel so much better!

I also wore the same outfit whilst on holiday in the Caribbean. I won’t lie, I didn’t really need my mood lifting whilst I was in all-inclusive luxury but the bright colours made me feel so joyful and happy about what I was wearing. I felt good.

You can’t really go wrong with the colour red. It’s bold and makes a statement and you can always pair it with a red lip. This gorgeous dress is from the brand Nobody’s Child and it’s such a versatile item which can be dressed up or down. I paired the dress with a faux suede leopard print jacket from the brand Only at Very. I’m sure we all know how much I love a bit of leopard print and a bold coat or jacket can really uplift an outfit. I think this is going to be my jacket for this Summer. It’s lightweight but can really enhance a look. Polka Dots, Stripes, Animal print are all patterns which can make a bold uplifting statement with your outfit. I think leopard print goes really well with the colour red too.

I’m slightly obsessed with the heels I wore on holiday which were from Schuh which is another brand available on Very. They matched the Nobody’s Child dress perfectly and with the 3D flowers, they added a little something. For dressing down the look, I added a pair of colourful adidas spezials which I practically live in. You can embrace Dopamine Dressing even with bright footwear too! Accessories can really make an outfit pop.

Finally, I need to mention my favourite piece of the outfit which is the waterfall pearl bag from River Island. Whilst it’s not bold in colour, it certainly makes a statement with how pretty it is. I am obsessed with this piece. It can be worn on holiday, for a special occasion such as attending a wedding or the races. It’s not the most practical bag but I’m still obsessed. On a side note, I love that River Island is available on Very as they have so many lovely items this Summer.

I’m going to be posting a few more mood lifting outfits across my social media so stay tuned. As mentioned, I’ve also been on holiday in the Caribbean so there is A LOT of summer content coming your way!

Do you think that dressing in bright colours and bold prints can improve your mood? Do you dress to feel more joy?

Disney Parks are a magical journey no matter the time of year you visit. Each season ushers in beautiful aesthetics and new experiences, but it also presents unique challenges when it comes to planning your attire. Whether you’re planning a fairy tale spring getaway or a winter wonderland trip, you’ve got to prepare for the weather and the packed days of adventure. Here’s my season-by-season guide to what to wear for the best Disney Park experience.

Spring: A Refreshing Adventure

Spring is synonymous with new floral life and milder temperatures. Therefore, ensure your outfit choice matches this weather. A light dress, layered with a cardigan or a light jacket, will do. Of course, going on vacation means you want to look stylish in your photos, but comfort is essential. So, consider wearing a comfortable push-up bra, which offers both flair and functionality. Make sure you’ve got comfortable shoes for those long walks through the park and a versatile bag for your essentials.

Summer: Basking in the Sun

Summer at Disney can get quite hot, so planning for the high temperatures is vital. Grab your most comfortable, comfortable shorts and team them with breathable cotton shirts or tank tops – don’t forget a comfortable bra that’s breathable in the heat. Opt for light colours to deflect the sun rather than dark ones that will attract and hold in the heat. Your footwear needs to be both breathable and supportive as the summer heat makes the pavements hotter and your feet tire easily. Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, and a high SPF sunscreen. It’s also good to carry a portable fan or cooling towel to bear the daytime heat.

Autumn: A Whirlwind of Colours

Autumn is a magical time to visit the Disney Parks. The natural colours and scenery set up an enchanting backdrop. On colder days, dig into your capsule wardrobe for comfortable jeans paired with a cotton shirt and a stylish jumper. On warmer days, switch to light dresses or shorts. Pair these with ankle boots or trainers that are comfortable for walking all day. Consider packing a lightweight jacket or a hoodie for unexpected weather changes and a little warmth during the evening shows.

Winter: A Magical Frosty Adventure

The winter season brings a hint of frosty magic to the Disney Parks. However, deciding what to wear in winter can be tricky due to the cold temperatures. Start with thermal or warm leggings as a base layer. Layer it with jeans or trousers and a warm, long-sleeved tee or a turtleneck jumper. Winter calls for thicker jackets and coats, cosy scarves, hats and gloves. For footwear, trainers or walking boots lined with some faux fur can help keep your feet warm. At night, as the temperature drops, you’ll appreciate earmuffs and a hot cup of cocoa!

All Seasons: Absolute Essentials

No matter the season, some things remain an absolute must in your packing list for the Disney Parks. Comfortable walking shoes, for one, as you’ll be on your feet a lot. Second, a bag large enough to carry essentials like water, snacks, maps, etc., but not too cumbersome that it becomes uncomfortable. Lastly, don’t forget your Disney accessories – ears, pins, wands, princess crowns, or character-inspired clothing. Wearing these out and about in the parks adds another layer of enjoyment!

Remember, no matter what season you choose to visit, embrace every moment, take lots of photos, scatter pixie dust and make unforgettable memories with Mickey and his pals!